Congolese-style Grilled Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Korean Sanjeok typically uses soy sauce and sesame oil in its marinade, our Congolese-style Grilled Skewers incorporate a unique blend of Congolese spices and herbs to infuse the meats with rich flavors. Additionally, we introduce Congolese vegetables, such as cassava leaves and okra, to add a distinct Congolese touch to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Sanjeok, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into cubes
• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken breast, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 500g (1.1 lb) pork, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) pork, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons ground peanuts 2 tablespoons ground peanuts
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
• 2 tablespoons ground ginger 2 tablespoons ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons ground garlic 2 tablespoons ground garlic
• 2 tablespoons ground onion 2 tablespoons ground onion
• 2 tablespoons ground chili pepper 2 tablespoons ground chili pepper
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons ground parsley 2 tablespoons ground parsley
• 2 tablespoons ground thyme 2 tablespoons ground thyme
• 2 tablespoons ground basil 2 tablespoons ground basil
• 2 tablespoons ground lemongrass 2 tablespoons ground lemongrass
• 2 tablespoons ground cassava leaves 2 tablespoons ground cassava leaves
• 2 tablespoons ground okra 2 tablespoons ground okra
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers, soaked in water Skewers, soaked in water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the palm oil, tomato paste, ground peanuts, ground crayfish, ground ginger, ground garlic, ground onion, ground chili pepper, ground coriander, ground parsley, ground thyme, ground basil, ground lemongrass, ground cassava leaves, and ground okra. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the beef, chicken, and pork cubes to the marinade. Ensure all the meat is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated meat cubes onto the soaked skewers, alternating with your choice of vegetables.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Serve the Congolese-style Grilled Skewers hot, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by your favorite Congolese side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — For tender skewers, choose a tender cut of beef such as sirloin or tenderloin. If using a tougher cut, marinate the beef for a longer period to enhance its tenderness.
• Chicken breast — To prevent dryness, marinate the chicken breast for at least 2 hours and avoid overcooking on the grill.
• Pork — Opt for lean pork cuts like pork loin or tenderloin for a healthier option. Marinating the pork will help infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during grilling.
• Cassava leaves — If fresh cassava leaves are not available, you can use dried cassava leaves. Soak them in water for a few hours before grinding.
• Okra — Choose fresh and tender okra pods for the best texture. Remove the stems and slice them lengthwise before grinding.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak the skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Baste the skewers with the marinade while grilling to enhance the flavors.
• Serve the skewers with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime for a tangy twist.
• Experiment with different vegetable combinations, such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes, to add more variety to your skewers.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground chili pepper in the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Congolese-style Grilled Skewers as a main course alongside steamed rice or fufu, a traditional Congolese staple made from cassava. Accompany the skewers with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. The vibrant colors of the grilled meats and vegetables will create an enticing display. Serve with a side of Congolese hot sauce or chutney for an extra kick of flavor.