Beef and Chicken Satay Recipe
Total Time: 20 minutes | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes
This delicious and savory Southeast Asian-inspired dish is a perfect combination of tender meat, aromatic spices, and a rich peanut dipping sauce. Known for its versatility, it pairs well with fresh cucumber and a side of homemade peanut sauce for a truly authentic experience. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a quick snack or a light lunch, it’s a breeze to make, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and filling. Let’s dive into this quick and easy satay recipe that can be grilled or broiled in no time.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Turmeric | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Fish sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Lamb (or chicken) | 1 1/4 pounds (about 500g) |
| Pork (optional for variety) | 1/4 pound (optional) |
| Bamboo skewers | 6-8 pieces (soaked in water for 2-3 hours) |
Nutritional Information (Per Skewer)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 231.2 |
| Fat Content | 15.1 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 3.4 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 55.8 mg |
| Sodium Content | 317.8 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 3.3 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.3 g |
| Sugar Content | 2.2 g |
| Protein Content | 20 g |
Instructions:
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Soak the Skewers
Begin by soaking your bamboo skewers in water for 2-3 hours before you start preparing the satay. This will help prevent the skewers from burning during the grilling or broiling process. -
Prepare Your Ingredients
While the skewers soak, take a moment to prepare all your ingredients. Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. Measure out the turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, and sugar. Have the fish sauce, salt, and meat ready. The meat should be cut into small, bite-sized cubes or strips, making it easier to skewer and cook quickly. -
Mix the Seasoning
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, sugar, fish sauce, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until well-mixed, creating a flavorful seasoning paste. -
Marinate the Meat
Add the cubed lamb (or chicken, depending on your preference) to the seasoning mix. Toss the meat thoroughly in the paste, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the marinated meat sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to deepen and intensify. -
Preheat the Grill or Broiler
Once the meat has marinated, preheat your grill or broiler. This step is essential to achieving that perfect char and flavor. If you’re using a grill, ensure the fire is hot. For broiling, set the broiler to high. -
Assemble the Skewers
Take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated meat onto them. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece of meat to ensure even cooking. If you prefer, you can alternate pieces of lamb and pork on the same skewer for variety. -
Grill or Broil the Satays
Place the skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook the satays for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the meat is thoroughly cooked. The exact cooking time will depend on the heat of your grill or broiler and the thickness of your meat.Tip: Stay close by while cooking to avoid overcooking the meat or burning the skewers. These satays cook quickly, so vigilance is key!
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Serve the Satay
Once the satays are golden and slightly charred, remove them from the grill or broiler. Arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast. Serve immediately with a side of homemade or store-bought peanut sauce for dipping. -
Grilling vs. Broiling
For the best flavor, grilling over an open flame is ideal. It adds a smoky depth to the meat that broiling cannot replicate. However, if grilling isn’t an option, you can easily broil the satays in the oven. To do this, place a cake rack on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil to keep the skewers elevated, ensuring they don’t cook in their own juices, which could make them tough.
Additional Tips for Success:
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Meat Options: While this recipe suggests lamb and chicken, you can easily substitute pork, beef, or even a combination of meats depending on what you have available or your flavor preferences.
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Cucumber Pairing: Cucumber is a traditional accompaniment to satay. Its crisp, mild flavor balances out the rich and spicy meat. You can either slice it into thin rounds or serve it as whole spears alongside the skewers.
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Peanut Sauce: If you’d like to take your satay to the next level, serve it with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. You can either make a quick homemade version or buy pre-made peanut sauce from the store. A bit of lime juice, chili, and sugar will give it a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet notes.
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Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For an even deeper flavor profile, you can let the meat marinate overnight in the refrigerator. The longer the marination, the more the seasoning will infuse into the meat.
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Vegetable Options: If you’re looking to add more variety to your satay skewers, you can also alternate pieces of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini between the pieces of meat. This will not only add more flavor but also color to your presentation.
Final Thoughts:
This Beef and Chicken Satay recipe is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and protein-packed dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a casual lunch, a quick snack, or a gathering with friends, it’s easy to scale up the recipe to suit your needs. The marinade delivers a perfect balance of spices, while the grilling or broiling method locks in moisture, creating tender meat that’s bursting with flavor. Serve it with a side of peanut sauce and cucumber for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Enjoy the delightful taste of Southeast Asia right at home with this simple yet delicious satay recipe.
Enjoy your cooking and dining experience with this perfect dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and dipping sauces!
