Anticuchos: Meat and Vegetarian Skewers Recipe
Anticuchos are a popular South American dish, especially in countries like Peru and Chile. These skewers combine juicy cuts of meat with a variety of vegetables, making them perfect for a summer barbecue. They are easy to prepare and versatile enough to accommodate both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Whether you’re grilling for a large gathering or just a family dinner, these flavorful skewers are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak) | 1/2 kg (about 1.1 lbs) |
| Longaniza sausage | 1/4 kg (about 0.55 lbs) |
| Hot dogs or frankfurters (viennas) | 4 pieces |
| Red or yellow bell peppers | 2 pieces |
| Large onion | 1 piece |
| Mushrooms | As desired |
| Zucchini (courgette) | As desired |
| Corn on the cob (cut into pieces for veg skewers) | As desired |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Skewers (wooden or metal) | For assembly |
Instructions:
Step 1: Optional Marinade
For enhanced flavor, you can marinate the beef before grilling. Let the beef rest in a mixture of salt, pepper, and a dash of red wine or a meat stock concentrate for about 30 minutes. This step is entirely optional, but it adds a deeper flavor to the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the beef into small, bite-sized cubes. Slice the longaniza sausage and hot dogs into even pieces. Next, chop the vegetables: cut the bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and mushrooms into similarly sized chunks for easy skewer assembly.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Take your skewers and begin alternating between pieces of meat, sausage, hot dog, and vegetables. For the vegetarian skewers, focus on the vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and pieces of corn. Sprinkle each skewer with a bit of salt and pepper for seasoning.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on a preheated grill. It’s essential to turn the skewers regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. If the fire is too strong, reduce the heat to avoid charring. Grill the skewers until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Anticuchos are traditionally served with a side of potatoes, corn, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: You can create entirely vegetarian anticuchos by using only vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and corn. Season them generously to ensure they absorb the smoky grill flavors.
- Marinades and Sauces: Experiment with different marinades for both the meat and vegetables, such as a spicy chili marinade or a citrus-based sauce to add extra flavor to your skewers.
- Grill Safety: Keep a close eye on the grill to ensure your skewers don’t burn. Lower the heat or move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill if necessary.
Enjoy this flavorful South American-inspired dish with friends and family!
