Canadian Kebabs

Canadian Kebabs Recipe - Mouthwatering Grilled Steak with Maple Syrup and Oranges

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Canadian kebabs are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines marinated steak with fresh oranges, creating a unique and tasty meal that is perfect for grilling. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner.

History

The origins of kebabs can be traced back to the Middle East, where skewered meats were cooked over an open flame. Over time, variations of kebabs have been created in different countries, each with their own unique flavors and ingredients. Canadian kebabs typically feature marinated steak and fresh fruits, giving them a sweet and savory taste.

Ingredients

0.25 cup cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp chopped green onion
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp rye whiskey (optional- I never omit this)
0.5 tsp ground cloves
0.5 tsp salt & pepper
1 lb (454 g) grilling steak (top sirloin, tenderloin, strip loin or rib eye)
2 oranges, peeled & cut into large chunks

How to prepare

In a large sealable bag, combine vinegar, garlic, syrup, onions, whiskey, cloves, salt, and pepper.
Set aside 4 tbsp of the marinade for basting.
Trim any fat from the steak and cut it into 1" cubes.
Add the steak cubes to the bag, seal tightly, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes or overnight.
Discard the marinade used on the steak.
Thread the steak and orange onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
Place a greased grill over medium-high heat, close the lid, and cook, basting with the reserved marinade, for 4–5 minutes per side or until browned but still pink inside.
Serve.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as pineapple or peaches in place of oranges for a unique twist on this recipe.
Substitute chicken or pork for the steak for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the steak for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the meat and oranges to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Baste the kebabs with the reserved marinade while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.

- Cook the kebabs over medium-high heat to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Canadian kebabs with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use balsamic vinegar in place of cider vinegar for a different flavor.

- If you don't have rye whiskey, you can omit it from the marinade.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the steak overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kebabs on a platter with fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Canadian kebabs with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

10g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C from the oranges.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and soy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Canadian kebabs are a tasty and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for grilling. With a flavorful marinade and fresh oranges, these kebabs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Canadian Kebabs. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret's house for a barbecue. Margaret had recently returned from a trip to Canada, and she couldn't stop raving about the delicious kebabs she had tried there.

As we sat in her backyard, sipping on cold drinks and enjoying the warm breeze, Margaret suddenly jumped up and disappeared into the house. Moments later, she emerged with a worn, stained piece of paper in her hand. "I want to share this recipe with you, dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye.

I eagerly took the paper from her hands and studied the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for pieces of tender beef marinated in a flavorful mixture of maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then skewered with colorful bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. It sounded absolutely mouthwatering.

Margaret explained that she had learned this recipe from a Canadian friend she had met on her trip. She had watched her friend prepare the kebabs over a smoky grill, the fragrant aroma filling the air and making everyone's mouths water. Margaret had begged her friend for the recipe, and she had graciously shared it with her.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these Canadian Kebabs myself. Margaret kindly offered to show me the ropes, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, marinating the beef, and threading everything onto skewers.

As we grilled the kebabs over hot coals, the tantalizing scent of the maple syrup and spices filled the air, just as Margaret had described. When we finally sat down to eat, the kebabs were even more delicious than I had imagined. The tender beef, the sweet and savory marinade, and the charred vegetables all came together in a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that day on, Canadian Kebabs became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and backyard barbecues, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried them. I even passed the recipe on to my own friends and family, just as Margaret had done for me.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and additions to the original recipe, adding my own unique touches to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different cuts of meat, tried out new marinades, and even swapped out the vegetables for seasonal favorites. But no matter how I make them, Canadian Kebabs will always hold a special place in my heart as the dish that brought me closer to my friend Margaret and introduced me to the flavors of Canada.

As I look back on that summer day when I first learned to make Canadian Kebabs, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share memories and stories, and to create something beautiful and delicious to enjoy together.

So the next time you fire up the grill and gather your loved ones around for a meal, consider making a batch of Canadian Kebabs. Let the sweet and savory flavors transport you to a sunny backyard in Canada, where friends come together to enjoy good food, good company, and good times. And remember, the best recipes are the ones that bring people together and create lasting memories that you will cherish for years to come.