Chicken and beef satay is a popular Southeast Asian dish that combines succulent pieces of chicken and beef with a flavorful marinade, grilled to perfection. This recipe takes these tender chunks of meat and enhances them with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a tantalizing treat. The satay is then paired with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, adding a delightful nutty flavor to the dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine, this chicken and beef satay recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create a mouthwatering dish that will be the highlight of any gathering.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2cm/3⁄4in piece of tamarind pulp
- 100ml/31/2fl oz hot water
- 2 skinless chicken breast fillets
- 350g/12oz flash-fry steak
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- Pinch of salt
PREPARATIONS:
- Soak the tamarind pulp in the hot water for a few minutes, then hold the pulp over the bowl and squeeze to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp and set the tamarind liquid aside.
- Prepare the satay by using a sharp knife to cut the chicken and the steak into small chunks. Put in a deep baking tray and set aside.
- Heat a small frying pan, add the coriander and cumin seeds, and dry-roast for 1–2 minutes until aromatic, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and pound to a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Put the pounded spices in a blender or food processor with the onion, tamarind liquid, soy sauce, garlic, vegetable oil, turmeric, five-spice powder, and a pinch of salt. Whiz for a few seconds, then pour over the meat. Cover and leave to marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours, turning the meat occasionally.
- Thread the meat onto soaked bamboo skewers. Put under a hot grill or on a barbecue, and grill for 10–15 minutes, turning frequently and basting with any extra marinade.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- To make the peanut sauce, put the peanut butter, coconut, lemon juice, soy sauce, sugar, and chili powder in a clean pan.
- Add 300ml/10fl oz water, and bring slowly to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes until the coconut has dissolved and the sauce thickens.
- Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to taste.
TIPS:
- Soaking the bamboo skewers in water before grilling will prevent them from burning.
- Use a blender or food processor to save time when preparing the marinade.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to the marinade.
- If you prefer a spicier peanut sauce, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve the satay sticks hot on a platter with a small bowl of peanut sauce for dipping.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
In conclusion, this chicken and beef satay recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia. The marinade, infused with a blend of coriander, cumin, and turmeric, combined with the tangy tamarind and aromatic spices, results in tender and juicy meat bursting with flavor. The grilling process adds a smoky char and caramelization, further enhancing the taste and texture of the satay.
The accompanying peanut sauce perfectly complements the savory meat with its creamy and nutty profile. The combination of smooth peanut butter, creamed coconut, and tangy lemon juice creates a luscious and velvety sauce. The slight kick from the chili powder adds a pleasant spiciness, balancing the richness of the sauce.
To achieve the best results, it is important to marinate the meat for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the chicken and beef. The use of soaked bamboo skewers ensures even cooking and prevents them from burning. Remember to baste the meat with any remaining marinade while grilling to enhance the flavors and keep it moist.
When serving, present the satay sticks on a platter and provide a small bowl of peanut sauce for dipping. The combination of succulent meat and the creamy, nutty sauce is an irresistible combination that will leave your guests craving more.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue party or simply want to indulge in a flavorsome and exotic dish, this chicken and beef satay recipe is sure to please. Its simplicity in preparation, along with the explosion of flavors, makes it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
In conclusion, give this recipe a try and experience the tantalizing flavors of chicken and beef satay. Let your taste buds embark on a culinary adventure, savoring the tender meat, fragrant spices, and creamy peanut sauce. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this authentic Southeast Asian dish that will transport them to the streets of Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia.
