Savory Moroccan Spiced Beef Skewers
Experience a delightful journey through Moroccan cuisine with these Savory Moroccan Spiced Beef Skewers. Marinated in a rich blend of spices, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this dish transforms simple beef stew meat into a delicious and tender meal. The longer you let the beef marinate, the more flavorful and tender it becomes, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Grill them to perfection and serve alongside thick bread for a meal that brings authentic Moroccan tradition to your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef stew meat
1 1/2-2 lbs (cut into less than 1 inch thick cubes)
parsley
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
olive oil
1/3 cup (none)
onion
1/2 small (grated)
tomato paste
1 tablespoon (none)
vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
cumin
1/2 teaspoon (none)
paprika
1/2 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
onion powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting any large pieces of beef stew meat into halves to ensure even cooking. Place the beef cubes in a medium mixing bowl, then finely chop the parsley and add it to the beef, tossing to combine.
2
In a small glass bowl, pour in the olive oil. Add the grated onion, tomato paste, vinegar, and all the spices (salt, cumin, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder). Stir until the mixture is well combined.
3
Pour the flavorful oil and spice mixture over the beef cubes. Mix thoroughly until the meat is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate to marinate for a minimum of 2 hours, or up to overnight for the best flavor.
4
Once marinated, thread the beef cubes onto skewers, ensuring there’s a small space between each piece for even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5
Grill the skewers for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6
Serve the skewers hot with thick Moroccan bread, allowing guests to enjoy scooping up their meal by hand, embracing the traditional Moroccan way of dining.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of meat is used for Moroccan Spiced Beef Skewers?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 to 2 lbs of beef stew meat.
How should the beef be prepared before marinating?
The beef stew meat should be cut into cubes that are less than 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
What is the recommended marinating time?
You should marinate the beef for a minimum of 2 hours, though letting it sit overnight provides the best flavor and tenderness.
What spices are included in the Moroccan spice blend?
The blend includes salt, cumin, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
How do I prepare the onion for the marinade?
The onion should be grated rather than chopped to better integrate with the oil and spices.
What is the purpose of adding vinegar to the marinade?
Vinegar helps to tenderize the beef stew meat and adds a slight tang to the flavor profile.
Do I need to use tomato paste?
Yes, the recipe requires 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to add richness and color to the marinade.
How much olive oil is needed?
You will need 1/3 cup of olive oil for the marinade base.
What kind of parsley should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley.
Should I leave space between the meat pieces on the skewers?
Yes, leave a small space between each piece of beef to ensure heat can circulate and cook the meat evenly.
What grill temperature is best for these skewers?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
How long do the skewers take to cook?
Grill the skewers for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally.
What is the safe internal temperature for the beef?
The beef should reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How can I tell if the beef is done without a thermometer?
The meat should be browned on the outside and no longer pink on the inside.
What is the traditional way to serve these skewers?
They are traditionally served hot with thick Moroccan bread, often eaten by hand using the bread to scoop the meat.
Can I use a different type of oil?
While olive oil is traditional and recommended for flavor, you can use other neutral oils if necessary.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the meat while it marinates?
Yes, always cover the bowl and refrigerate the meat during the marination process for food safety.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
The recipe specifies garlic powder for even distribution, but you can substitute with minced fresh garlic if preferred.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or under a broiler, though the cooking times may vary.
Can I use this recipe for other meats?
Yes, this Moroccan spice marinade also works well with lamb or chicken.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 12 ingredients including the meat, herbs, and spices.
Is this recipe considered gluten-free?
The meat and marinade are gluten-free, but it is traditionally served with bread which contains gluten.
Does the recipe use dried or fresh parsley?
It uses 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley, which usually refers to fresh parsley for the best flavor.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Based on 1.5-2 lbs of meat, it typically serves 3 to 4 people.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
The tags include Moroccan, beef skewers, grilling, kebabs, spiced meat, traditional cuisine, and outdoor cooking.
Should I soak the skewers?
If you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, you should soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd.
Is the marinade spicy/hot?
The marinade is savory and flavorful with spices like cumin and paprika, but it is not inherently 'hot' unless you add chili flakes.
Why use beef stew meat?
Stew meat is an affordable option that becomes tender and delicious when marinated properly and grilled quickly over high heat.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover cooked beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.