Savory Fragrant Beef Yakitori

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 ½lbs (700 g) top round beef I prefer beef
  • tenderloin cut to cubes
  • 30 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 4
  • fours before using

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Spice Paste:

  • 4 candlenuts, roughly chopped
  • 2 in (5 cm) fresh galangal, peeled and sliced
  • 1 in (2 ½ cm) fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 2 to 3 red finger-length chilies, deseeded
  • 5 shallots, peeled
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds or ground
  • coriander
  • 3 tablespoons shaved palm sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons oil

1 salam leaf

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Cut the beef into 1-in (2 ½ cm) cubes and set aside
  • Make the Spice Paste by grinding all the ingredients, except the oil and salam leaf, to a smooth paste in a mortar or blender, adding a little of if necessary to keep the mixture turning. Heat the oil in a wok over medium heat and stiry-fry the ground paste with the salam leaf for 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant, remove from the heat and set aside to cool.
  • When cooled, place the Spice Paste and beef in a large bowl and mix well. Set aside in the refrigerator  to marinate.
  • Soak the bamboo skewers in water for 4 hours before using  so they do not burn when grilling the meat. Thread the marinated beef onto the skewers and grill over hot charcoal or under a preheated broiler for 2 to 3 minutes o each side, basting with the marinade, until cooked. Turn the skewers  frequently to prevent the beef from burning, it should be browned on the outside and cooked on the inside.