These Marinated Beef Kabobs are a true delight, offering a flavorful and satisfying option for any grilling occasion. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or gatherings with friends, these kabobs are not only delicious but also low in carbs. The marinade infuses the beef with rich flavors that elevate this simple dish into something spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can get your kabobs ready for marinating.
- Flavorful Marinade: A mix of balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress everyone.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these kabobs on their own or pair them with your favorite sides like salads or grilled vegetables.
- Healthy Choice: Low in carbohydrates and high in protein, they’re perfect for those looking for a nutritious meal option.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your marinated beef kabobs easy and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic bag or container with lid
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for holding your beef cubes together while grilling. Choose metal or soaked wooden skewers.
- Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and great grill marks on the kabobs.
- Mixing bowl: Helps you mix the marinade thoroughly before adding the meat.
- Plastic bag or container with lid: Ideal for marinating the beef, allowing all sides to soak in the delicious flavors.
Ingredients
These marinated beef kabobs are absolutely delicious and they’re perfect for a tasty low-carb meal from the grill.
For the Kabobs
- 2 pounds lean beef, trimmed and cut into 2 inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons beef stock
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- black pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Marinated Beef Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Start by trimming most visible fat from the meat. Cut it into 2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, stir together:
1. Beef stock (or red apple vinegar)
2. Balsamic vinegar
3. Worcestershire sauce
4. Olive oil
5. Onion powder
6. Garlic powder
7. Steak seasoning
8. Dried thyme
9. Dried oregano
10. Black pepper
Add bay leaves to enhance flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Place meat cubes in a small Ziploc bag or plastic container that fits all pieces tightly. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring all cubes are coated well.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Marinate meat in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, or longer if desired.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
When ready to cook, drain excess marinade from kabobs while preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 6: Assemble Kabobs
Thread marinated meat tightly onto skewers and let them come to room temperature as the grill heats up.
Step 7: Grill Kabobs
Grill kabobs until they reach desired doneness:
– About 8-10 minutes for rare,
– 10-12 minutes for medium rare,
– Or 12-15 minutes for medium.
Step 8: Check Doneness
To ensure perfect cooking, remove one piece of meat from a skewer and cut into it, or use a digital meat thermometer.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Let kabobs rest for about 5 minutes before serving to retain juices and enhance flavor.
How to Serve Marinated Beef Kabobs
Marinated beef kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways that suit your taste and occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the kabobs on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Spinach and Arugula: A peppery arugula salad pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the beef.
With Dips and Sauces
- Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt-based sauce complements the rich flavor of the kabobs.
- Chimichurri: A vibrant herb sauce adds an extra layer of freshness and zing.
As a Finger Food
- Skewers on Appetizer Platters: Serve them directly on skewers for easy snacking during gatherings.
- Mini Slider Buns: Place pieces of kabob between small buns for tasty sliders.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Pair the kabobs with grilled veggies for a colorful plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness alongside the meat.
How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs
To ensure your marinated beef kabobs turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Marinade: Use a mixture of flavorful ingredients like balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Quality Meat: Choose lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for tender bites that hold up on skewers.
- Skewer Soaking: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Uniform Size: Cut meat cubes evenly to ensure even cooking throughout the kabobs.
- Temperature Check: Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure your beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Resting Time: Allow the kabobs to rest for 5 minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs
Pairing sides with marinated beef kabobs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement their bold flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that is low in carbs.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and spices add nutritional value and flavor.
- Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs balances the richness of the beef.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts toss with olive oil make a crunchy side option.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs provides a healthy grain choice that pairs well with kabobs.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and complements grilled meats nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your marinated beef kabobs from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marination time: Marinating beef kabobs for at least 4-6 hours enhances the flavor. Don’t rush this step; longer marination results in juicier and more flavorful meat.
- Using tough cuts of beef: Choosing lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin will yield the best results. Avoid tougher cuts, as they may not cook evenly or become tender on the grill.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much meat onto each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave space between each piece to ensure proper heat circulation while grilling.
- Neglecting to preheat the grill: A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear. Preheat your grill to medium-high before placing your kabobs on it.
- Not checking doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Serving immediately after grilling: Allowing kabobs to rest for about 5 minutes before serving helps redistribute juices, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover marinated beef kabobs in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them in containers.
Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Place uncooked marinated beef kabobs in freezer-safe bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy stacking and storage.
Reheating Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a lid, and microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes until heated.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, turning frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for marinated beef kabobs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken, pork, or even shrimp if you prefer! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is the best beef cut for making marinated beef kabobs?
Cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye work best due to their tenderness and flavor profile when grilled.
How long should I marinate my beef kabobs?
For optimal flavor, marinate your beef kabobs for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is even better if you have the time!
Can I make these marinated beef kabobs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead by marinating and freezing them. Just thaw before grilling.
How do I know when my marinated beef kabobs are done?
Use a digital meat thermometer; aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium rare or adjust according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
These marinated beef kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize them with different spices or marinades based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these kabobs are sure to impress! Try them today and savor every bite!
Marinated Beef Kabobs
Discover the mouthwatering delight of Marinated Beef Kabobs, perfect for any grilling occasion. These flavorful skewers make an ideal choice for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings with friends. Infused with a zesty marinade of balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, each tender bite of beef is complemented by the option to add your favorite vegetables. Low in carbs yet high in protein, these kabobs cater to health-conscious eaters without sacrificing taste. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make dish that promises to elevate your dining experience.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean beef (sirloin or tenderloin), cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons beef stock
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Steak seasoning
- Dried thyme
- Dried oregano
- Black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Trim visible fat from the beef and cut it into uniform 2-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef stock, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, steak seasoning, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and bay leaves.
- Place the beef cubes in a resealable bag or container. Pour the marinade over the meat and ensure all pieces are well-coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove excess marinade from the beef and thread onto skewers.
- Grill kabobs for 8-15 minutes depending on desired doneness (8-10 minutes for rare; 12-15 minutes for medium).
- Let kabobs rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg