Moroccan Grilled Meat Skewers (Brochettes)

Moroccan Grilled Meat Skewers, or Brochettes, are a popular and delicious street food in Morocco. These skewers are typically made with tender beef or lamb that is marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, then grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful meat with a smoky char that is perfect for serving alongside flatbread or couscous. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer, a snack, or part of a larger meal, Brochettes are a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) beef (sirloin, tenderloin, or lamb), cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional for extra tenderness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, black pepper, salt, lemon juice, and chopped herbs (if using).
2. If you like a more tangy flavor, add white vinegar to the marinade.
3. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

2. Marinate the Meat:

1. Add the cubed beef or lamb to the marinade, ensuring the meat is fully coated with the spices and olive oil mixture.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (ideally 2-3 hours, or even overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.

3. Prepare the Skewers:

1. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
2. Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced.

4. Grill the Skewers:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning the skewers every 2-3 minutes to ensure the meat is cooked evenly on all sides. You can adjust the grilling time based on how well-done you prefer the meat. The meat should have a nice char on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside.
3. If grilling indoors, you can also broil the skewers in your oven on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through.

5. Serve:

1. Once the meat is fully cooked and nicely browned, remove the skewers from the grill.
2. Serve the Moroccan Grilled Meat Skewers with flatbread (khobz), a side of couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also offer a dipping sauce like tahini or harissa for added flavor.

Tips and Variations:

• Meat Variations: While lamb is the traditional choice for brochettes, you can also use chicken, beef, or even a mix of meats for variety. For a leaner option, consider using chicken breast or turkey.
• Vegetable Additions: To add some color and flavor, you can alternate pieces of meat with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes on the skewers. These vegetables soak up the marinade and become beautifully charred during grilling.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like mint or thyme can be added to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor. These herbs are commonly used in Moroccan cooking and complement the spices perfectly.
• Sweetness: For a slightly sweeter marinade, you can add a tablespoon of honey or pomegranate molasses to the marinade mixture.
• Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook these skewers on a stovetop grill pan or in an oven broiler.

Serving Suggestions:

• Bread: Serve the brochettes with Moroccan flatbread (khobz) for an authentic experience. The bread can be used to scoop up the meat and juices, adding to the enjoyment.
• Couscous or Rice: Pair the skewers with couscous, a fluffy and aromatic side dish that complements the spices of the grilled meat. Alternatively, serve over rice for a fulfilling meal.
• Salad: A light cucumber, tomato, and onion salad with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory skewers.
• Dips: Offer some flavorful dips like tahini or yogurt-based sauces, or even spicy harissa, to complement the smoky grilled meat.