Tender Beef Kebabs (Shashlik) Recipe

Discover the ultimate beef kebab recipe that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for grilling! These juicy steak skewers are marinated in a zesty lemon-dill mixture and paired with colorful bell peppers and onions for a delicious and visually stunning dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, looking for easy weeknight dinners, or meal prepping for the week, this easy beef shashlik recipe will satisfy your cravings.

With a prep time of just 20 minutes (excluding marination), this recipe is quick, simple, and packed with wholesome ingredients. These grilled beef kebabs are a great addition to any menu, offering tender, smoky, and savory flavors that pair beautifully with rice, salads, or pita bread. Try this classic shashlik recipe for your next gathering and enjoy the perfect blend of taste and convenience!

Ingredients

For the Kebabs:

• 2 lbs top sirloin or good-quality beef, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
• 1 large purple onion, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
• 15 medium bamboo or wooden skewers

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup mild olive oil
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 medium lemons)
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, pressed
• 3 tbsp fresh or frozen dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill weed)
• 2 dry bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large, non-metallic bowl (glass or plastic), mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic, dill, and bay leaves until well combined.
2. Marinate the Beef:
   Add the beef cubes to the bowl with the marinade, stirring to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even marination.
   Tip: If the marinade firms up in the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before skewering.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
   Soak bamboo or wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. While the skewers soak, slice the bell peppers and onion into 1 ½-inch pieces.
4. Assemble the Kebabs:
   Alternate threading the marinated beef, bell peppers, and onion onto the soaked skewers. Brush or drizzle the remaining marinade over the assembled skewers for extra flavor.
5. Grill the Kebabs:
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to ensure even grilling. Cook to your desired level of doneness.
   Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, or 160°F for well-done.
6. Rest and Serve:
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite steak sauce or accompaniments.

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Tips:

• Meat Selection: Top sirloin works well, but you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a more luxurious option.
• Marination Time: For maximum flavor, aim for the full 6 hours of marination.
• Vegetable Prep: Uniformly cut veggies help with even cooking and prevent burning.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, lamb, or shrimp as alternatives to beef.
• Veggie Options: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for extra variety.
• Spices: Enhance the marinade with paprika, cumin, or smoked chili flakes for additional flavor.

FAQs:

Can I use metal skewers instead of bamboo?
Yes, metal skewers work perfectly and don’t require soaking.

Can I cook these kebabs in the oven?
Yes, broil them on high for 8–10 minutes, rotating halfway through.

How do I know when the beef is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair these kebabs with a side of fluffy rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or warm pita bread.
• Serve alongside a tangy yogurt or tzatziki sauce for added freshness.
• Include a crisp green salad or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These tender beef kebabs are packed with bold flavors from the lemon-dill marinade, complemented by the charred smokiness of grilled vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or even weeknight dinners, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s sure to become a household favorite!