Name: Garlic and Black Pepper Beef Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs skirt steak, cut against the grain into very thin strips; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon garlic paste; 1 tablespoon ginger paste; 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon curry powder; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Fish sauce, to drizzle; Lime juice, to drizzle; Chili crisp, for topping; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Rice, for serving; Broccoli, bagged salad, or quick cucumber salad (see notes); Wooden or metal skewers, soaked if wooden (minimum 15 minutes)

Introduction

These Garlic and Black Pepper Beef Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Marinated with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a hint of curry, then broiled to caramelized perfection, they offer a delightful blend of savory and spicy notes. Serve them with rice and a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.

A white bowl with a blue geometric pattern holds a layered dish starting with a base of white rice at the bottom left. On top of the rice is a generous pile of grilled, dark brown meat with crispy edges, covered with freshly chopped green herbs. To the right side, thinly sliced light green cucumbers and translucent white onion rings are arranged neatly, drizzled with a reddish sauce and sprinkled with small green herbs. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs. skirt steak, cut against the grain into very thin strips

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon garlic paste

1 tablespoon ginger paste

1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon curry powder

Freshly cracked black pepper

Fish sauce, lime juice, chili crisp, and cilantro for topping

Rice, for serving

Broccoli, bagged salad, or quick cucumber salad (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Meanwhile, cut the skirt steak into very thin strips against the grain.

Step 2: In a bowl, combine the beef strips with soy sauce, garlic paste, ginger paste, kosher salt, sugar, curry powder, and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper. Marinate for 5-45 minutes; longer marinating enhances flavor but even a short time works well.

Step 3: Thread the marinated beef strips onto the soaked skewers, scrunching the meat tightly together.

Step 4: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top the meat with more freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 5: Position an oven rack 4-6 inches below the broiler element and preheat the broiler on high for a few minutes. Broil the skewers for about 6 minutes, aiming for caramelization on the surface.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the beef rest for a few minutes. Brush the tops with pan juices, then drizzle with lime juice and fish sauce. Garnish with cilantro and chili crisp if desired.

Step 7: Serve the skewers with rice and a fresh vegetable side like broccoli or cucumber salad. Enjoy them plain, drizzled, or in a rice bowl for finger-licking good bites.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have a broiler, grill the skewers over medium-high heat for a similar caramelized effect.

For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or extra chili crisp while serving.

Try substituting skirt steak with flank steak or sirloin strips for a slightly different texture.

A quick cucumber salad with lime and a touch of sugar makes a perfect refreshing side.

FAQs

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Yes, metal skewers work well and don’t need soaking. Just be mindful of their heat conducting properties when handling.

What if I don’t have garlic or ginger paste?

You can substitute with freshly minced garlic and ginger. Use about one clove of garlic and one teaspoon of grated ginger for every tablespoon of paste.