Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil with our Brazilian Beef Skewers, known as Espetinhos, served with a tangy Vinagrete sauce. These skewers are perfect for grilling and are a favorite at Brazilian barbecues. Juicy, marinated beef paired with the fresh and zesty vinagrete makes for an irresistible combination. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
For the Beef Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Metal or wooden skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use)
For the Vinagrete Sauce:
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the Vinagrete Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, green bell pepper, and parsley. Pour in the red wine vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the beef skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the beef skewers with the Vinagrete sauce on the side for dipping or spooning over the meat.
How to Prepare
The key to delicious Brazilian Beef Skewers is in the marinade and the fresh Vinagrete sauce. Marinating the beef with garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, and spices ensures it is flavorful and tender. Grilling the beef skewers over medium-high heat creates a perfect char while keeping the inside juicy. The Vinagrete sauce adds a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich beef, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for marinating)
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
- Can I use other cuts of beef? Yes, other tender cuts like ribeye or tenderloin work well for skewers.
- What can I serve with Espetinhos? They pair wonderfully with rice, farofa, or a simple green salad.
- Can I prepare the Vinagrete sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Can I cook the skewers in the oven? Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover beef and Vinagrete sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef gently on the grill or in a skillet.