The sun-drenched streets of Brazil are a culinary paradise, filled with vibrant flavors and enticing aromas. One dish that encapsulates this spirit is the Brazilian Beef Kebabs, a delightful skewered treat that’s perfect for grilling season or any festive gathering. With juicy chunks of beef marinated in a zesty citrus blend and spices, these kebabs are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible Brazilian Beef Kebabs.
Why It Works Every Time
These Brazilian Beef Kebabs are a perfect marriage of simplicity and flavor. The marinade, made from fresh orange juice, lime, and aromatic spices, tenderizes the beef while infusing it with a burst of flavor. The key ingredients work in harmony to create a deliciously savory experience. Plus, grilling the skewers gives them that irresistible smoky char that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kebabs are bound to be a hit every time.
What Goes Into Brazilian Beef Kebabs
To create these flavorful Brazilian Beef Kebabs, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
- 60ml fresh orange juice (about ¼ cup)
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 60ml olive oil (about ¼ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon ground fennel
- 1 kg beef rump steak (cut into cubes)
- Lemon wedges (to serve)
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen gear:
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs for flipping the kebabs
Brazilian Beef Kebabs: From Prep to Plate
Follow these simple steps to bring your Brazilian Beef Kebabs to life:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground cumin, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried parsley, and ground fennel. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Cut the beef rump steak into 1-inch cubes and add them to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs
Once the beef is marinated, take your skewers and thread the beef cubes and chunks of red onion onto them. Alternate between the beef and onion for a colorful presentation.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Place the assembled kebabs on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is nicely charred and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Brazilian Beef Kebabs with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal.
Quick Replacement Ideas
If you’re missing some ingredients or want to customize your kebabs, here are a few quick replacement ideas:
- Use lime juice in place of orange juice for a tangier flavor.
- Substitute beef with chicken or lamb for different meat options.
- Try using honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Replace the red onion with bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful veggie boost.
Mistakes That Ruin Brazilian Beef Kebabs
To ensure your Brazilian Beef Kebabs turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not marinating long enough: Allowing the beef to marinate for a sufficient time is crucial for flavor and tenderness.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Leave enough space between the meat and veggies on the skewers to ensure even cooking.
- Using high heat without monitoring: Cooking too quickly can cause the outside to char while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat.
- Skipping the resting time: Letting the kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain their juices.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to save time, you can prep the marinade and marinate the beef a day ahead. Just keep everything in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
- Marinated beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Cooked kebabs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet before serving.
Handy Q&A
Can I use other cuts of beef for these kebabs?
Absolutely! While beef rump steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or flank steak for a delicious alternative. Just ensure they are cut into even cubes for consistent cooking.
What can I serve with Brazilian Beef Kebabs?
These kebabs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with rice, a fresh salad, or even steak loaded baked potato macaroni for a hearty meal.
Can I make these kebabs in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the kebabs in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Are these kebabs spicy?
The level of spice in these Brazilian Beef Kebabs can be adjusted based on your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. The other spices will still provide a rich flavor.
More from the Kitchen
If you’re inspired by these kebabs, check out more delicious recipes from our kitchen:
- Beef Fajitas – A flavorful twist on classic fajitas.
- Garlic Parmesan Steak With Pillowy Gnocchi – A comforting dish that combines steak and gnocchi perfectly.
Wrap-Up
These Brazilian Beef Kebabs are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Brazil right to your backyard. With their vibrant marinade and tender beef, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting a summer barbecue, these kebabs will surely become a new favorite. Try them out, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family!
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Brazilian Beef Kebabs
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 60 ml fresh orange juice (about ¼ cup)
- 1 unit lime (juiced)
- 60 ml olive oil (about ¼ cup)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon ground fennel
For the Kebabs:
- 1 kg beef rump steak (cut into cubes)
- 1 unit red onion (cut into chunks)
- as needed Lemon wedges (to serve)
Instructions
Preparation Steps:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground cumin, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried parsley, and ground fennel. Whisk until well combined.
- Cut the beef rump steak into 1-inch cubes and add them to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Once the beef is marinated, take your skewers and thread the beef cubes and chunks of red onion onto them. Alternate between the beef and onion for a colorful presentation.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
- Place the assembled kebabs on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is nicely charred and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
Equipment
- Skewers
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
Notes
- Marinate the beef for at least 1 hour for best flavor.
- Use soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Try using lime juice for a tangier flavor.
