Beef Shashlyk

Beef Shashlyk Recipe from Ukraine with Onions, Black Pepper, and Vinegar

Region / culture: Ukraine | Preparation time: 4 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef Shashlyk is a savory, grilled meat dish that has its roots in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines. This dish is all about simplicity, focusing on the natural flavors of the beef, enhanced with onions, salt, and pepper. It's a perfect recipe for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where good food and company are cherished. The process involves marinating the beef to tenderize and infuse it with flavors, then skewering and grilling it to perfection. This guide will walk you through the history, cooking tips, nutritional information, and various ways to enjoy Beef Shashlyk.

History

The tradition of Shashlyk dates back centuries, originating from the nomadic tribes of the Caucasus and Central Asia. It was a practical method of cooking, using skewers to grill meat over an open fire. The recipe has traveled across borders, with each region adding its unique twist. The version we know today, Beef Shashlyk, became popular in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Poland. It's a dish that celebrates the simplicity of grilling, turning basic ingredients into a meal that's rich in history and flavor.

Ingredients

4 onions
1.5 kg beef chuck
1 tsp flour
100 g melted butter
100 g scallions
vinegar and salt to taste
ground black pepper

How to prepare

Cut the meat into large cubes measuring 5x3x2 cm.
Peel the onion and finely dice it.
In a ceramic bowl, combine the meat, onion, and pepper.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Leave it in a cold place for 3 – 4 hours.
Prepare wooden sticks and thread the meat onto them.
Sprinkle with flour and fry in a large pan with heated oil.
Cook until it turns light brown, but the inside remains pink.

Variations

1. Chicken Shashlyk: Substitute beef with chicken breast or thigh for a lighter version.
2. Vegetarian Shashlyk: Use large chunks of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms instead of beef.
3. Spicy Shashlyk: Add chili flakes or a spicy marinade to the beef for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Marinate the beef for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight if possible, to ensure it's flavorful and tender.

2. Use wooden skewers soaked in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.

3. Ensure your grill or pan is hot before adding the skewers to achieve a nice sear on the meat.

4. Don't overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece of meat to ensure even cooking.

5. Let the cooked Shashlyk rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef Shashlyk with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or traditional accompaniments like pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the traditional method for cooking Shashlyk, providing a smoky flavor and charred exterior. However, you can also cook it in a well-heated cast-iron skillet or under the broiler if outdoor grilling isn't an option.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Olive oil can be used instead of melted butter for a healthier option.

2. If you're avoiding gluten, cornstarch can replace flour for dusting the meat.

3. For a different flavor profile, try marinating the beef in yogurt or a mixture of soy sauce and garlic.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the beef and prepare the skewers a day ahead to save time. Keep them refrigerated until you're ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the skewers on a platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve with dipping sauces on the side for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Beef Shashlyk pairs well with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, which complement the richness of the meat. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Shashlyk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, covered, to retain moisture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Shashlyk contains approximately 350-400 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal. It's a satisfying dish that can fit into a balanced diet, especially when served with vegetables or a light salad.

Carbohydrates

Beef Shashlyk is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source coming from the onions. A serving of this dish contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Fats

The fat content in Beef Shashlyk can vary depending on the cut of beef used. Chuck beef, as recommended in this recipe, is moderately fatty, contributing to the juiciness and flavor of the dish. The added melted butter also increases the fat content, with a total of approximately 20-25 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Beef Shashlyk is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. A single serving can provide about 30-35 grams of protein, making it a hearty and satisfying meal option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, particularly those found in beef, such as Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. These nutrients are vital for energy production, immune function, and overall health.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe are gluten (from the flour used for dusting) and dairy (from the melted butter). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients can easily modify the recipe to suit their needs.

Summary

Overall, Beef Shashlyk is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. It's low in carbohydrates and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Beef Shashlyk is a versatile, flavorful dish with a rich history. It's a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a meal that's both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy the art of grilling. With various serving suggestions, nutritional benefits, and the potential for customization, Beef Shashlyk is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Beef Shashlyk. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in Russia. My aunt was an amazing cook and she loved to share her recipes with me. One day, she decided to teach me how to make Beef Shashlyk, a traditional Russian dish that is typically cooked on skewers over an open flame.

My aunt began by marinating the beef in a mixture of vinegar, oil, garlic, and herbs. She explained that marinating the meat for several hours would help to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. As the meat soaked in the marinade, my aunt showed me how to prepare the vegetables that would accompany the beef on the skewers. She sliced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, and tossed them in a little oil and salt.

Once the meat had finished marinating, my aunt threaded the chunks of beef onto skewers, alternating them with the vegetables. She then took us outside to the open fire that had been prepared for cooking the shashlyk. As the skewers sizzled over the flames, the savory aroma of the cooking meat filled the air.

I watched in awe as my aunt expertly turned the skewers, ensuring that the meat cooked evenly on all sides. When the beef was done, she removed the skewers from the fire and placed them on a platter. The meat was succulent and tender, with a delightful charred flavor from the open flame.

As we sat down to eat, my aunt explained that Beef Shashlyk was a popular dish in Russia, especially during summertime when families would gather for outdoor barbecues. She shared stories of her own childhood, when she would help her mother prepare shashlyk for special occasions and celebrations.

I was mesmerized by the rich history and tradition behind this simple yet delicious dish. I knew that I had to learn how to make Beef Shashlyk for myself so that I could carry on this culinary legacy.

When I returned home from my visit with my aunt, I set out to recreate the Beef Shashlyk recipe that she had taught me. I gathered all the ingredients and carefully followed the steps that she had shown me. As the meat marinated and the skewers cooked over my own backyard fire pit, I felt a deep connection to my Russian heritage and to my aunt who had shared this recipe with me.

When I finally sat down to enjoy the fruits of my labor, I was transported back to that day in Russia when I first learned how to make Beef Shashlyk. The flavors were just as bold and the memories just as vivid. I knew that this recipe would become a beloved tradition in my own family, passed down from generation to generation.

And so, each time I make Beef Shashlyk, I am reminded of my aunt and the time we spent together in Russia. I am grateful for her guidance and her love for cooking, which has inspired me to continue learning and sharing traditional recipes with my own loved ones. The taste of Beef Shashlyk will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the bond between food, family, and tradition.