Catalan-style Grilled Skewers

Ingredients

In this Catalan adaptation, we substitute the traditional minced chicken or fish used in sate lilit with minced pork, which is commonly used in Catalan cuisine. The original Indonesian spices are replaced with a blend of Catalan herbs and spices, such as parsley, thyme, and paprika. Additionally, lemongrass stalks are used as skewers instead of bamboo sticks, adding a unique touch to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Sate lilit, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) minced pork 500g (1.1 lb) minced pork
• 2 lemongrass stalks, trimmed and pounded 2 lemongrass stalks, trimmed and pounded
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the minced pork, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, thyme, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a portion of the pork mixture and wrap it around a lemongrass stalk, pressing gently to ensure it sticks together. Repeat with the remaining mixture and lemongrass stalks.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. 4.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. 5.
   Serve the Catalan-style grilled skewers hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Pound the lemongrass stalks gently with a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release their aromatic oils before using them as skewers.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork mixture.
• Soak the lemongrass stalks in water for 30 minutes before using them as skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Serve the skewers with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrus flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Catalan-style grilled skewers as a main course alongside a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables. They can also be served as an appetizer at a summer barbecue or tapas party.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for an attractive presentation. Serve them with a colorful dipping sauce, such as romesco or aioli, to enhance the visual appeal.