Zanzibari Spiced Beef Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Iranian Kabab digi is typically made with ground lamb or beef, the Zanzibari adaptation focuses on using whole beef chunks marinated in a unique blend of Zanzibari spices. The flavors are adjusted to incorporate the aromatic spices commonly found in Zanzibari cuisine, such as cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon. The grilling technique remains the same, but the overall taste profile is transformed to reflect the vibrant and exotic flavors of Zanzibar. We alse have the original recipe for Kabab digi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef chunks 500g (1.1 lb) beef chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground cloves, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the beef chunks to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated beef chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, 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.
7. 7.
   Serve the Zanzibari Spiced Beef Skewers hot with coconut rice or a fresh salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef chunks — Choose tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, for the best results. Trim any excess fat before marinating to prevent flare-ups on the grill.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
• For an extra burst of flavor, brush the skewers with a mixture of melted butter and Zanzibari spices while grilling.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Zanzibari Spiced Beef Skewers as a main course alongside coconut rice or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with lime wedges and sprigs of fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of coconut rice and a colorful salad to create an enticing and vibrant presentation.