Sizzling Skewers: A Flavorful Adventure with Garlic and Black Pepper Beef
Forget boring dinners! These Garlic and Black Pepper Beef Skewers are about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender strips of steak, perfectly browned and caramelized, bursting with savory, slightly sweet flavors. It's a quick trip to flavor town and I am excited to share it with you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I'm not usually a huge beef person. But these skewers? I can't get enough! What's the magic? The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of curry powder is nothing short of amazing, creating a warm yet vibrant flavor profile. The thin strips of steak cook super fast, ensuring each bite is juicy and full of flavor. They are like savory little candies, and I can't stop eating them!
Versatile Cooking Methods
Whether you prefer broiling, pan-searing, or using an air fryer, this recipe is super versatile. Each method will result in beautifully caramelized beef.
- Broiling: For a quick and easy method, the broiler is your friend. It will give you that perfect caramelization in minutes
- Pan-searing: If you are looking for a bit more control, a hot pan can create a deep crust while maintaining the juicy inside.
- Air frying: The air fryer is perfect for a no fuss quick option.
The Secret is in the Finish
Don't skip the final step. A drizzle of fish sauce and fresh lime juice adds a wonderful burst of brightness, taking these skewers to the next level.
Perfect Pairings
I love serving these skewers over a bed of fluffy rice with a simple cucumber shallot salad. The chili crisp is optional, but it adds a beautiful touch of color and subtle heat. Or, like me, you can just eat them right off the pan, I won't judge!
How To Make Garlic and Black Pepper Beef Skewers
Here's a simple guide on how to make this delicious recipe:
1. Prepare the Beef
- Cut the skirt steak into thin strips against the grain. If the steak is thin, you can fold it over to make cutting easier.
2. Add the Flavor
- In a bowl, mix the beef with garlic paste, ginger paste, soy sauce, curry powder, salt, and sugar. The smells are just amazing.
3. Skewer (Or Not)
- Thread the beef onto soaked skewers. Don't overthink it, just scrunch them on there! If you don't have or don't want to use skewers, no problem, you can cook it without them.
4. Cook
- Broil: Broil the skewers for about 6 minutes, watching carefully for the caramelization.
- Pan Sear: Sear for 3-4 minutes in a hot pan.
- Air Fry: Cook at 450 for 5-6 minutes until caramelized.
5. Finish and Serve
- Drizzle with fish sauce and lime juice. Serve them over rice, or just eat them straight off the pan! Top with some cilantro for extra flavor.
Recipe Card
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 5 mins
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs skirt steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- Freshly cracked black pepper
For Serving:
- Fish sauce, for drizzling
- Lime juice, for drizzling
- Chili crisp (optional), for topping
- Cilantro, for topping
- Cooked rice
- Cucumber Salad, or your favorite vegetable side dish
Instructions
- Soak the wooden skewers for at least 15 minutes.
- Mix the beef strips with the soy sauce, garlic paste, ginger paste, salt, sugar, curry powder and black pepper. Marinate for 5 to 45 minutes, if time allows.
- Thread beef strips onto the skewers.
- Cook using one of the following methods:
- Broil: Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet 4-6 inches below the broiler. Broil for 6 minutes, until caramelized.
- Pan Sear: In a very hot cast iron skillet, sear the beef for 3-4 minutes, mostly undisturbed, until golden brown.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer and cook at 450 for 5-6 minutes until caramelized.
- Let the beef stand for a few minutes, then drizzle with fish sauce and lime juice. Garnish with chili crisp and cilantro, if desired.
- Serve with a side of rice and a cucumber salad.
Notes
- If using fresh garlic and ginger, grate 3 large cloves of garlic and a 1-inch knob of ginger.
- For a simple cucumber salad, thinly slice half a cucumber and a shallot, then toss in a small bowl with a teaspoon or two of lime juice or vinegar, plus some salt, pepper, and sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I skip the skewers? Absolutely! Just cook the beef on a parchment lined sheet.
- Can I use other meats? Yes, just keep in mind that the goal is that delicious caramelization, so use high heat.
- What is Garlic and Ginger paste? These are available in the refrigerated produce section of most stores.
- What can I serve this with? Rice, steamed broccoli, or cucumber salad are great options.
More Delicious Skewer Recipes
Enjoy this flavor-packed and easy recipe. Let me know in the comments if you make it!