Bangkok-style Grilled Meatball Skewers
Capture the vibrant street food culture of Bangkok right in your kitchen with these flavorful grilled meatball skewers. Inspired by the bustling markets of the Thai capital, these skewers are a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and savory sauces. Each meatball is juicy and aromatic, infused with the essence of Thai cuisine. Ideal for a casual gathering or a delightful dinner, these skewers can be served hot off the grill or under the broiler, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Pair with fresh dipping sauces and a side of crunchy vegetables for an authentic experience.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
char siu sauce
2 tablespoons (none)
water
2 tablespoons (none)
chili-garlic sauce
1 teaspoon (none)
lean ground beef
2/3 lb (none)
cilantro
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
garlic
1 teaspoon (minced)
ginger
1 teaspoon (minced)
Thai chile
1/2 teaspoon (minced)
oyster sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
soy sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
fish sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
sesame oil
2 teaspoons (none)
brown sugar
2 teaspoons (none)
cornstarch
2 teaspoons (none)
black pepper or green pepper
1 teaspoon (fresh ground)
bamboo skewers
6 (soaked in water)
Instructions
1
Soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the char siu sauce, water, and chili-garlic sauce to create the glazing sauce. Set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, minced ginger, minced Thai chile, oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, and black pepper. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.
4
Form the mixture into 18 evenly-sized meatballs, approximately 1 rounded tablespoon each.
5
Thread 3 meatballs onto each soaked skewer. If desired, intersperse slices of red or green bell pepper between the meatballs for added flavor and color.
6
Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
7
After baking, carefully remove the skewers and generously brush the meatballs with the prepared glaze.
8
Switch on the broiler and return the skewers to the oven, cooking each side for about 2 minutes or until the meatballs develop a nice char and are cooked through.
9
Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with your choice of fresh dipping sauce and sides.
10
For meal prep, you can prepare the skewers up to the broiler step and then finish them on the grill for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bangkok-style Grilled Meatball Skewers?
They are a flavorful Thai street food-inspired dish featuring juicy beef meatballs seasoned with traditional herbs and spices, then grilled or broiled with a sweet and savory glaze.
What type of meat is used for these skewers?
This specific recipe calls for lean ground beef to create the meatballs.
How many meatballs does the recipe yield?
The mixture should be formed into 18 evenly-sized meatballs, approximately one rounded tablespoon each.
How many skewers are made in total?
The recipe makes 6 skewers, with 3 meatballs threaded onto each skewer.
Why is it necessary to soak the bamboo skewers?
Soaking bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning or catching fire during the baking and broiling process.
How long should the skewers be soaked?
The bamboo skewers should be soaked for at least 30 minutes before use.
What ingredients make up the glaze?
The glaze is a mixture of char siu sauce, water, and chili-garlic sauce.
What aromatics are used in the meatball mixture?
The meatballs are flavored with finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, minced ginger, and minced Thai chile.
What sauces provide the savory base for the meat?
The meat is seasoned with a combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce.
Is there sugar in the meatball recipe?
Yes, two teaspoons of brown sugar are added to balance the savory and spicy flavors.
Why is cornstarch used in the meat mixture?
Cornstarch acts as a binder to help the meatballs hold their shape and stay juicy during cooking.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes, you can intersperse slices of red or green bell pepper between the meatballs for extra flavor and color.
What is the baking temperature for the meatballs?
The skewers should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
How long do the skewers bake before glazing?
The skewers are baked for an initial 10 minutes before the glaze is applied.
When should the glazing sauce be applied?
The glaze should be brushed generously onto the meatballs after the initial 10-minute baking period.
How long do I broil the meatballs?
Broil each side for about 2 minutes, or until the meatballs develop a nice char and are fully cooked.
Can these be prepared on an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can finish the skewers on a grill instead of using a broiler to achieve a smoky, authentic street food flavor.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers up to the broiler step and then finish them later on the grill or broiler when ready to serve.
What kind of pepper is used?
The recipe suggests using either freshly ground black pepper or green pepper.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat level due to the Thai chile and chili-garlic sauce, which can be adjusted to your preference.
What should I serve with the skewers?
They pair well with fresh dipping sauces and a side of crunchy vegetables like cucumbers or carrots.
What type of oil is used for seasoning?
Sesame oil is used to provide a rich, toasted nutty aroma to the meat.
Can I use ground pork instead of beef?
While the recipe calls for beef, ground pork is a common substitute in Thai street food and would work well with these seasonings.
Are these skewers served hot or cold?
They are best served warm, either fresh off the grill or straight from the oven.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe falls under the Meat category and is often served as an appetizer or party food.
How do I ensure the meatballs are cooked through?
By following the 10-minute bake at 350°F followed by 4 total minutes of broiling, the meatballs should reach a safe internal temperature.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix and form the meatballs or even thread them onto skewers in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for casual gatherings or simple dinners.
What is the inspiration behind this dish?
It is inspired by the vibrant street food culture and bustling markets found in Bangkok, Thailand.