Recipes

Mishkaki (East African Beef Skewers)

Serves 4

| Prep Time: 50 mins

| Cook Time: 10 mins

| Total Time: 1 hour

You may need: Grains of Paradise

Discover The Recipe

As we continue our tour of East Africa, our chefs prepared a delicious Mishkaki (East African Beef Skewers) recipe that is sure to please. Mishkaki, a Swahili term for skewered meat, is a beloved street food staple in East Africa, particularly in coastal countries like Tanzania and Kenya. This dish, often enjoyed at bustling markets and lively gatherings, showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage, influenced by centuries of trade and cultural exchange along the Indian Ocean. Our Mishkaki recipe features succulent chunks of sirloin steak, marinated in a tantalizing blend of spices and aromatics. The magic lies in the use of Grains of Paradise—a unique African spice with a peppery, citrusy flavor that elevates any dish. Grind them in a pepper grinder or a mortar and pestle. Combined with garlic, olive oil, salt,and a splash of white vinegar, you’ll be amazed at the flavor you develop.

As the meat sizzles on the grill, the aroma of the spices mingles with the smoky char of the fire, creating an irresistible invitation to savor each bite. The skewers are alternated with vibrant red bell peppers and onions, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch to the savory, tender beef. Mishkaki is a cultural experience that brings people together. Traditionally enjoyed with friends and family, these skewers are perfect for your next cookout or casual dinner party. Serve them hot off the grill, and let the flavors of East Africa transport you to the sun-drenched shores and bustling markets of the Swahili coast.

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1 inch chunks
1 tsp Kosher salt
1 tsp Piquant Post Grains of Paradise, ground (use a pepper grinder or mortar/pestle)
2 tsp garlic, diced
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp white vinegar
1 red bell pepper, chopped into ½ inch pieces
½ onion, chopped
10 wooden skewers

Notes

We like to soak the skewers to prevent them from splitting, or burning on the grill.

Optional ingredients add a little character and flavor but don’t sweat it if you don’t have them.

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine steak, salt, Piquant Post Grains of Paradise, garlic, olive oil and white vinegar. Marinate for 30 mins.

Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 mins.

Skewer the meat, alternating with bell pepper and onion in between.

Grill over high heat for 7-8 mins, rotating every 2 mins. Serve hot!

Alternatives & Substitutions

Grains of Paradise are slightly peppery and resemble whole peppercorns that can be used interchangeably with black pepper to flavor soups, stews and even steeped whole to make syrups for desserts.
We love this Apple Cobbler with Grains of Paradise if you would love another cozy dish for the winter months.
For vegans and vegetarians, try this Okra and Tomatoes with Grains of Paradise, or our tasty and refreshing Kachumbari.
Add our blend to this Lamb and Apricot Tagine for a unique flavor addition.
Be sure to leave comments and feedback on your meals and experiments in the comments for others to read.
Post pictures of your masterpiece meal on social media and tag us. We repost!