Sudanese-style Grilled Beef Skewers

Ingredients

In this Sudanese adaptation of Isaw, we replace the traditional pork intestines with tender beef strips. The marinade is also modified to incorporate Sudanese spices, giving the dish a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, the grilling technique is used instead of deep-frying, adding a smoky element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Isaw, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef strips 500g (1.1 lb) beef strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, tomato paste, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix well to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the beef marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated beef strips onto the soaked wooden skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef strips — For the best results, choose tender cuts of beef such as sirloin or ribeye. Trim any excess fat before slicing into strips.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling will prevent them from burning.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the grilled beef skewers with a side of Sudanese peanut sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite Sudanese spices or herbs.

Serving advice

Serve the Sudanese-style Grilled Beef Skewers hot off the grill as a main dish. They pair well with a side of Sudanese flatbread or rice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled beef skewers on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, and serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the meat.