Satay

Introduction:

Satay is a popular dish originating from Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It consists of marinated meat, often chicken, beef, or lamb, skewered and grilled to a smoky char. Satay is known for its flavorful marinade, rich in spices and aromatics like turmeric, lemongrass, and garlic, and is typically served with a delicious peanut dipping sauce. The contrast between the savory, spiced meat and the creamy, nutty sauce makes Satay a must-try dish for any fan of grilled foods.

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast (or beef/lamb), cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Marinate the meat: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, turmeric, minced garlic, lemongrass, coriander, and coconut milk. Add the meat strips, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare the skewers: Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked skewers.
3. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Make the peanut sauce: In a small saucepan, combine all the peanut sauce ingredients. Heat gently over low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve: Serve the grilled Satay with peanut sauce on the side, along with cucumber slices and rice or flatbread.

Health Notes:

• Satay is high in protein but can be calorie-dense due to the use of coconut milk and peanut sauce. Opt for lean meats and control the portion of the sauce for a healthier version. You can also substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions:

• Satay is best enjoyed hot off the grill. Serve with a side of fragrant jasmine rice, cucumber salad, and the rich peanut sauce. You can also serve with flatbread like roti or naan for a more complete meal.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the meat overnight.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Adjust the spiciness of the peanut sauce by adding more or less chili paste depending on your preference.