Spicy Ginger Lemongrass Beef Skewers (Printable Version)

Bold flavors meld in these spicy grilled beef skewers accented by fresh ginger and lemongrass.

# Components:

→ Beef & Marinade

01 - 1.3 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 2 stalks lemongrass, tough outer layers removed, finely minced
03 - 1.5 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 2 red chilies, deseeded and finely chopped
06 - 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
07 - 2 tbsp fish sauce
08 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
09 - 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
10 - 1 tbsp sesame oil
11 - 1 tsp ground black pepper

→ For Serving

12 - Lime wedges
13 - Fresh cilantro leaves
14 - Cooked jasmine rice (optional)

# Preparation steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine minced lemongrass, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped chilies, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to create the marinade.
02 - Add the beef cubes to the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or ideally up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.
03 - If utilizing wooden skewers, submerge them in water for 30 minutes prior to use to prevent charring on the grill.
04 - Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers. Arrange the pieces closely together without overcrowding to ensure even heat exposure.
05 - Set your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat setting.
06 - Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, rotating as needed, for a total of 8–12 minutes until the beef is cooked through and exhibits a desirable caramelization.
07 - Remove the skewers from the heat and allow them to rest for approximately 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Jasmine rice can be offered as an accompaniment.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under 2 hours with most time being hands-off marinating
  • Impressive enough for entertaining yet simple enough for weeknight dinners
  • Naturally gluten free when using tamari instead of soy sauce
  • Customizable heat level to suit your preference
02 -
  • Perfectly cooked skewers should be slightly charred outside but still juicy inside
  • The marinade can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator
  • These skewers are excellent for meal prep as they reheat beautifully
03 -
  • When mincing lemongrass, remove the tough outer layers and use only the pale lower portion of the stalk for the best flavor and texture. Bruise it first with the flat side of your knife to release the essential oils before mincing finely.
  • For the most tender results, cut your beef against the grain, especially when using flank steak.
  • Finally, dont rush the grilling process. The caramelization that happens during cooking is essential for developing the complex flavors that make these skewers irresistible.
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