Introduction
Anticuchos are a popular street food in Peru, consisting of skewered and grilled marinated meat, traditionally made from beef heart. The skewers are often seasoned with a flavorful marinade that includes spices, vinegar, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. Anticuchos are usually served with potatoes and aji sauce, providing a delicious combination of savory and spicy flavors. This dish not only represents the rich culinary heritage of Peru but is also a favorite at festivals and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) beef heart (or sirloin for a milder option), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika (preferably smoked)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and sliced
- Aji sauce or hot sauce (for dipping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
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Marinate the Meat:
- In a large bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the beef heart cubes (or sirloin) and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
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Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, ensure they are clean and ready for use.
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Skewer the Meat:
- Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
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Grill the Anticuchos:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness and has nice grill marks.
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Serve:
- Arrange the grilled anticuchos on a serving platter alongside boiled potato slices. Serve with aji sauce for dipping and garnish with chopped parsley. Lime wedges can be added for an extra burst of flavor.
Health Notes
- Anticuchos can be a nutritious dish, providing a good source of protein from the meat. However, consider portion sizes and the amount of dipping sauce used, as it can be high in sodium.
Serving Suggestions
- Anticuchos are perfect for outdoor gatherings or parties. They pair well with a side of fresh salad, corn on the cob, or even Peruvian rice dishes for a complete meal.
Tips
- Meat Variations: While beef heart is traditional, you can use other cuts of beef, chicken, or even vegetables for skewers to accommodate different tastes.
- Marination Time: The longer the meat marinates, the more flavorful it will become. Aim for a minimum of 2 hours if possible.
- Grilling Options: If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the skewers in a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Aji Sauce: A traditional Peruvian aji sauce can be made from aji amarillo peppers, garlic, vinegar, and oil for a tangy and spicy dip.
