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Cumin-Scented Beef Kebabs

4.5

(46)

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Cumin-Scented Beef KebabsRoland Bello

Tender, inexpensive sirloin flap steak—another name for the "tails" of porterhouses and T-bones—is ideal for kebabs. It's well marbled (the fat adds flavor on the grill), and its long, narrow shape makes it easy to cut into cubes. Robust and beefy on its own, flap steak tastes even better after being marinated in a paste of olive oil, cumin, coriander, and fresh oregano.

Cooks' notes:

•Beef can be marinated up to 8 hours.
•Kebabs can be broiled on an oiled broiler pan about 3 inches from heat.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    2 1/2 hr (includes marinating)

  • Yield

    Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped oregano
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
2 pounds sirloin flap steak or flatiron steak, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
Equipment: 12 (12-inch) skewers, soaked in water 30 minutes if wooden

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Stir together oil, oregano, garlic, spices, and 1 teaspoon salt in a bowl, then toss with beef. Marinate, chilled, at least 2 hours.

    Step 2

    Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (high heat for gas); see Grilling Procedure . Thread about 4 pieces of beef onto each skewer, leaving small spaces between pieces, then transfer to a tray.

    Step 3

    Oil grill rack, then grill beef, covered only if using a gas grill, turning, until browned but still pink inside, 4 to 5 minutes.

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