There is something so exciting about skewers and kabobs. It reminds me of being a kid at the county fair where everything was deep-fried and served on a stick! These Paleo spice beef skewers are a lot healthier than a corn dog on a stick. And they taste a lot better too. The spice mix is just right, not too spicy, not too bland. Unlike some recipes for grilled meat, which rely on BBQ sauce for flavor, these beef skewers are all about the meat! So skip the breading and reach for the grown up take on food on a stick, you won’t regret it.
A Short History of the Skewer
Humans have been cooking with skewers since prehistoric times. The technique was popular in Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, and into the Middle Ages.
One of the most well known types of skewers is the kebab. This Middle Eastern preparation of meat is nearly always cooked on a stick, and remains popular to this day. There are many varieties of kebab available from the Turkish shish kebab to the Israeli shishlik. In the US, “kebab” has become nearly synonymous with skewer.
Other examples of skewers can be found all over the world from Peru, to Japan, to corn dogs at the fairgrounds!
Our Top Tips for Picking the Best Skewer for the Job
Skewers fall broadly into two categories, metal and wood or bamboo. Which is the best choice? That depends on you and what you want out of your skewers. Read on for our tips to help you make the right choice for yourself!
Don’t get fancy – Skewers with fancy handles, prongs, or attachments to help push meat onto the stick are not worth the hassle. Simple is best. The technique has lasted this long for a reason.
For occasional grilling, get bamboo/wood – If you don’t make skewers often, bamboo or wood skewers are probably right for you. Just remember to thoroughly soak them, and watch out for splinters!
Can’t get enough kebabs? Metal it is! – Reusable skewers are worth investing it, if you find yourself going through a lot of wood ones. For ease of use, look for flat skewers with a loop at the end for easy flipping!
More Paleo-Friendly Skewers and Kebabs
If you can put it on a stick and cook it, someone has tried it! Check out just a few of the recipes out there for Paleo skewers and have a grilling party.
Cut the beef steaks into large cubes and place in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, whisk to combine the spices, olive oil, and tamari sauce to the bowl. Season with salt, to taste.
Add the spice mixture to the bowl and mix well to ensure the beef cubes are completely covered by the mixture. Place the bowl in the refrigerator to marinate for 45 to 50 minutes. If using wood skewers, place them to soak in a bowl of water while the beef is marinating.
When ready to cook, thread an equal number of beef cubes tightly onto the skewers.
Place the skewers in a grill pan or skillet over high heat or place on a barbecue grill over direct heat. Cook for 1 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer for well-done.
Serve the skewers garnished with the chopped cilantro.
Notes
All nutritional data are estimated and based on per serving amounts.
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