Salvadoran-style Grilled Meat Skewers

Ingredients

In this Salvadoran adaptation of Leskovački roštilj, we incorporate traditional Salvadoran spices and flavors to create a unique twist on the original Serbian dish. The marinade for the meat includes Salvadoran spices such as achiote, cumin, and coriander, which infuse the meat with a distinct Salvadoran flavor profile. Additionally, we use local Salvadoran ingredients and cooking techniques to enhance the authenticity of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Leskovački roštilj, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) beef, cut into cubes 1.5 lbs (680g) beef, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, achiote paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the beef cubes to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat 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 Salvadoran-style Grilled Meat Skewers hot, accompanied by traditional Salvadoran sides such as curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and corn tortillas.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Achiote paste — Achiote paste is a key ingredient in Salvadoran cuisine and can be found in Latin American grocery stores. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with a mixture of paprika, cayenne pepper, and annatto powder for a similar flavor and color.
• Wooden skewers — Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling prevents them from burning during cooking. This step is important to ensure the skewers hold the meat securely.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled meat skewers before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
• Serve the skewers with a side of chimol, a Salvadoran salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, for a refreshing and tangy accompaniment.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• Experiment with different types of meat such as chicken or pork to create your own variation of Salvadoran-style grilled skewers.

Serving advice

Serve the Salvadoran-style Grilled Meat Skewers as the main course of a festive Salvadoran-inspired meal. Accompany them with traditional Salvadoran sides such as curtido (pickled cabbage slaw), corn tortillas, and rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled meat skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and wedges of lime for an attractive and inviting presentation. Serve them alongside the traditional Salvadoran sides to create a colorful and vibrant spread.