Beef Kabobs

Beef Kabobs Recipe from USA with Mushrooms, Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes, and Rice

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef Kabobs are a delightful and versatile dish that brings together succulent beef and fresh vegetables on a skewer, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering meal that's both easy to prepare and visually appealing. Ideal for grilling season or any time you crave something special, beef kabobs are sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The concept of cooking meat on skewers has ancient origins, with variations found in many cultures around the world. The term "kabob" or "kebab" is believed to have Middle Eastern roots, but similar dishes can be found in Asian, European, and African cuisines. This particular recipe for Beef Kabobs, with its use of Italian salad dressing for marination and a mix of vegetables, is a modern take that reflects the global fusion of culinary traditions.

Ingredients

1.5 to 2 lb (907 g) beef tenderloin
0.33 cup bottled italian salad dressing
12 whole fresh mushrooms
2 small zucchini
6 cherry tomatoes
3 to 4 cups hot cooked rice, cooked in beef broth

How to prepare

Cut the meat into 1.25 to 1.5 inch cubes. Place them in a shallow dish and add the salad dressing. Mix well. Cover and let it marinate for 30 minutes. If marinated for longer, refrigerate.
Remove the stems from the mushrooms. Set the mushroom caps aside for later use. Save the stems for another time.
Cut the zucchini into 12 half-inch crosswise slices. Remove the stems from the tomatoes. Take the meat out of the marinade.
Thread the skewers alternately with vegetables, using 3 pieces of meat, 2 slices of zucchini, 2 mushrooms, and ending with a tomato on 10-inch skewers.
Brush the kabobs with the remaining marinade. Broil them about 3 inches from the heat source for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them once.
Serve the kabobs on fluffy rice.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or meats according to your preference. Chicken, lamb, or shrimp can be excellent alternatives to beef. Similarly, bell peppers, onions, or eggplant can add variety to the vegetable selection.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your beef kabobs turn out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Choose the right cut of beef; tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor.

- Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance its taste and tenderness.

- Preheat your grill or broiler to ensure a good sear on the meat.

- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef kabobs on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, consider cauliflower rice or a side of grilled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred method for cooking kabobs as it imparts a smoky flavor and attractive grill marks. However, broiling in an oven is an excellent alternative, especially during colder months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Italian salad dressing is not available, you can create a simple marinade with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs. For a gluten-free option, ensure that the dressing or marinade is free from gluten-containing ingredients.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the beef overnight for enhanced flavor and tenderness. You can also prepare and refrigerate the skewered kabobs a few hours before cooking to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cooked kabobs on a platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve with dipping sauces like tzatziki or chimichurri for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Beef kabobs pair well with a variety of wines. A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until heated through, being careful not to overcook the meat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beef Kabobs, assuming the recipe serves 4, contains approximately 300 to 400 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the vegetables. Zucchini and tomatoes are low-carb options, making this dish suitable for those following a low-carbohydrate diet.

Fats

The beef tenderloin and Italian salad dressing contribute to the fat content of this dish. However, by choosing a lean cut of beef and a low-fat dressing, you can keep the fat content in check. The fats present are a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, important for a balanced diet.

Proteins

Beef kabobs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The beef tenderloin provides a significant amount of protein, making this dish a great option for post-workout meals or for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables used. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while zucchini offers vitamin A and magnesium. Mushrooms contribute B vitamins and selenium, making beef kabobs a nutrient-dense meal option.

Alergens

The primary allergen concern in this recipe is the Italian salad dressing, which may contain allergens such as soy or wheat. Always check the label if you have specific food allergies. The rest of the ingredients are generally considered safe for most people.

Summary

Overall, Beef Kabobs offer a balanced meal with moderate calories, high protein, low carbohydrates, and a good amount of healthy fats. They are also rich in various vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for any meal.

Summary

Beef Kabobs are a classic dish that combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and the perfect blend of seasonings. With their rich nutritional profile and versatility, they make for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether grilled outdoors or broiled indoors, these kabobs are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha who had just returned from a trip to the Middle East. She had brought back with her the most amazing spices and ingredients, and she was eager to show me how to make one of her favorite dishes - Beef Kabobs.

Martha had learned how to make Beef Kabobs from a local chef during her travels, and she couldn't wait to share the recipe with me. As she gathered the ingredients and started marinating the beef, the fragrant aromas of cumin, paprika, and garlic filled the air. I watched in awe as she skewered the marinated beef with colorful bell peppers and juicy cherry tomatoes.

As the Beef Kabobs sizzled on the grill, Martha told me about her time in the Middle East and the wonderful people she had met along the way. She spoke fondly of the hospitality and generosity of the locals, who had welcomed her into their homes and shared their family recipes with her.

I listened intently as Martha shared the story behind each ingredient in the Beef Kabobs - the cumin symbolized prosperity, the paprika represented passion, and the garlic was believed to bring good health and ward off evil spirits. The colors of the bell peppers and tomatoes were said to bring luck and happiness to those who ate them.

As we sat down to enjoy the Beef Kabobs, I marveled at the tender and flavorful meat, the perfectly charred vegetables, and the harmonious blend of spices. Each bite was a burst of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors that danced on my taste buds.

After that day, I couldn't stop thinking about the Beef Kabobs. I was determined to learn how to make them myself and share this delicious dish with my family and friends. I asked Martha for the recipe, and she gladly wrote it down for me, along with some tips and tricks she had picked up from the chef in the Middle East.

I gathered all the ingredients and set to work marinating the beef, slicing the bell peppers, and skewering everything onto the wooden sticks. As the Beef Kabobs grilled on the barbecue, the tantalizing smells wafted through the air, drawing my family to the backyard.

When I served the Beef Kabobs on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, my family's eyes lit up with excitement. They eagerly grabbed a skewer and bit into the tender meat and flavorful vegetables, savoring every mouthful.

From that day on, Beef Kabobs became a staple in our household. I would make them for special occasions, backyard barbecues, and family gatherings. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that warm summer day with Martha and the memories we had shared over a plate of delicious Beef Kabobs.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with extra garlic, a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, and a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy finish. I have also passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, sharing the story of how I learned to make Beef Kabobs from my dear friend Martha.

Now, whenever I make Beef Kabobs, I am reminded of the wonderful people I have met, the places I have traveled, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The recipe for Beef Kabobs has not only brought me culinary satisfaction but also a wealth of memories and connections that will last a lifetime.