Flavorful Russian Basturma Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these Flavorful Russian Basturma Skewers. This distinctive recipe transforms tender cuts of beef into succulent, marinated bites that are full of flavor. With a vibrant marinade of fresh herbs, tangy vinegar, and spices, these skewers are perfect for warm-weather gatherings or cozy family dinners. The marinating process infuses the beef with deep flavor, while the simple cooking method ensures a juicy and delicious result. Serve with fresh lemon and scallions for a refreshing finish that enhances this unique dish. Enjoy a taste of tradition with a modern twist!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1/4 cup (finely grated)
fresh basil
2 tablespoons (finely cut or 1 tablespoon of crumbled dried basil)
salt
1/2 teaspoon
fresh ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon
red wine vinegar
1/4 cup
filet of beef or boneless sirloin
2 lbs (cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes)
scallions
6-8 (cut into 4 inch long pieces, washed and dried)
lemon
1 (quartered)
fresh coriander or parsley
to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely grated onion, fresh or dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2
Add the beef cubes to the marinade, tossing them gently to ensure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture marinate at room temperature for 5-6 hours. Toss the beef every hour for even marination.
3
Prepare your grill by lighting a layer of coals until they have turned to white ash, or preheat your kitchen broiler to its highest setting.
4
Once marinated, remove the beef from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Thread the beef onto four long skewers, pressing the pieces firmly together to create compact skewers.
5
Place the skewers on the grill or under the broiler, keeping them about 4 inches from the heat source. Cook for approximately 10 minutes for rare, or 15 minutes for well done, turning the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6
Once cooked to your desired doneness, carefully slide the meat skewers onto individual plates. Garnish with fresh scallions, lemon wedges, and sprigs of fresh coriander or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Flavorful Russian Basturma Skewers?
They are a distinctive Russian-style dish featuring tender beef cubes marinated in a blend of onion, herbs, and vinegar, then grilled or broiled to perfection.
What cut of beef is best for these skewers?
The recipe recommends using 2 lbs of filet of beef or boneless sirloin for the best results.
How long should the beef marinate?
The beef should marinate at room temperature for 5 to 6 hours to ensure deep flavor infusion.
How often should I toss the beef while it is marinating?
It is recommended to toss the beef every hour during the 5-6 hour marination period for even coating.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of finely cut fresh basil with 1 tablespoon of crumbled dried basil.
How should the onion be prepared for the marinade?
The onion should be finely grated to properly integrate into the marinade mixture.
What type of vinegar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar to provide a tangy flavor and help tenderize the meat.
How large should the beef cubes be cut?
The beef should be cut into approximately 1 1/2 inch cubes.
What is the best way to cook the skewers if I don't have a grill?
You can use a kitchen broiler set to its highest setting as an alternative to an outdoor grill.
How do I know when the grill coals are ready?
Wait until the layer of coals has turned to white ash before placing the skewers on the grill.
How many skewers does this recipe yield?
The recipe is designed to be threaded onto four long skewers.
How far from the heat source should the meat be placed?
Keep the skewers approximately 4 inches away from the grill coals or the broiler heat source.
How long does it take to cook the beef to rare?
Cooking for approximately 10 minutes while turning occasionally will result in rare beef.
How long should I cook the beef for a well-done result?
For well-done beef, cook the skewers for approximately 15 minutes.
What should I do with excess marinade before grilling?
You should shake off any excess liquid from the beef cubes before threading them onto the skewers.
How should the meat be arranged on the skewers?
Press the beef pieces firmly together on the skewers to create a compact arrangement.
What are the recommended garnishes for this dish?
Garnish with fresh scallions, lemon wedges, and sprigs of fresh coriander or parsley.
How should the scallions be prepared?
Cut 6-8 scallions into 4-inch long pieces after washing and drying them.
Is salt and pepper included in the marinade?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper are mixed into the marinade.
Can I use parsley if I don't like coriander?
Yes, the recipe suggests either fresh coriander or parsley for garnish to suit your taste.
What is the purpose of the lemon wedges?
The lemon wedges are served alongside the skewers to provide a refreshing finish that enhances the flavor of the beef.
Do I need to cover the meat while it marinates?
Yes, you should cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap during the marinating process.
Is this a traditional Russian recipe?
Yes, it is described as a taste of tradition with a modern twist, reflecting Russian basturma styles.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While specific serving counts aren't listed, 2 lbs of beef typically serves approximately 4 people.
Can the beef be marinated in the fridge instead?
The recipe specifies room temperature for 5-6 hours, but if your kitchen is very warm, you should use the refrigerator.
Should the skewers be turned during cooking?
Yes, turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Is this dish suitable for outdoor BBQ gatherings?
Absolutely, these skewers are described as perfect for warm-weather gatherings and grilling.
How much onion is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of finely grated onion.
Are there specific instructions for the fresh basil?
Fresh basil should be finely cut before being added to the mixing bowl.
How do you serve the finished product?
Slide the meat skewers onto individual plates and add the garnishes like lemon and scallions immediately.