If you’re craving a smoky, juicy, and flavor-packed dish, this beef kebab recipe is exactly what you need.
Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal, beef kebabs are one of the most versatile and crowd-pleasing dishes you can prepare.
With tender chunks of marinated beef grilled to perfection alongside colorful vegetables, these skewers not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the plate.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this step-by-step guide will show you how to make the best beef kebabs with plantain that are juicy, flavorful, and easy to customize to your taste.
What is a Beef Kebab?
A beef kebab is a classic grilled dish made with chunks of seasoned beef, often skewered with vegetables like onions, peppers, or tomatoes, and cooked over an open flame or in the oven.
The word “kebab” comes from the Middle East, where skewered meats have been enjoyed for centuries, but today you’ll find variations of kebabs across the world, from Turkish shish kebabs to Mediterranean souvlaki and South Asian seekh kebabs.
What makes beef kebabs so popular is their simplicity and versatility.
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You can marinate the beef with just a few pantry spices for a quick meal, or go all out with rich marinades packed with herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil for maximum flavor.
Whether served at a backyard barbecue, a festive dinner, or as a quick appetizer, beef kebabs always bring bold taste, vibrant colors, and a restaurant-style experience right to your table.
Beef Kebab and Plantain Ingredients
Making the perfect beef kebab recipe starts with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Below is a list of what you’ll need to prepare juicy beef skewers that are packed with taste and color:
- Beef: Choose tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These cuts stay juicy and flavorful after grilling.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, balancing the spices.
- Plantain: A unique twist that gives your kebab a subtle sweetness and extra texture.
- Pepper: Use fresh chili peppers or ground pepper to add a little kick of heat.
- Ketchup: A touch of ketchup brings tanginess and helps coat the beef evenly.
- Groundnut Oil: Ideal for marinating and grilling, it enhances flavor without overpowering.
- Bell Pepper: Red, green, or yellow bell peppers add crunch, color, and mild sweetness.
- Carrot: Brings a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the skewers.
- Ginger/Garlic Powder: A must for depth of flavor and aromatic seasoning.
- Thyme: Provides an earthy, herby aroma that pairs perfectly with beef.
- Curry Powder: Adds warmth, fragrance, and a delicious golden color.
- Rosemary: A bold herb that enhances the smoky, grilled taste of kebabs.
- Seasoning Cube: An easy way to boost umami and bring all the flavors together.
Tip: Cut your vegetables into even-sized chunks so they cook at the same rate as the beef. Marinate the beef with your spices and oil for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).
Best Cut of Beef for Kebabs
Choosing the right cut of beef is the secret to making tender and juicy kebabs.
Since kebabs are cooked quickly over high heat, you’ll want meat that stays soft and flavorful without turning tough or chewy.
- Sirloin: One of the most popular choices for kebabs. It’s lean, flavorful, and tender enough to grill beautifully.
- Ribeye: A slightly fattier option that gives your kebabs extra juiciness and a rich, beefy taste.
- Tenderloin (Filet Mignon): The most tender cut, perfect if you want melt-in-your-mouth kebabs, though it’s on the pricier side.
- Top Round or Chuck Steak: More budget-friendly cuts that can work well if marinated properly to break down the fibers.
Pro Tip: Cut the beef into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking.
If the pieces are too small, they may dry out on the grill; if too large, the outside may char before the inside cooks through.
No matter which cut you choose, marinating the beef is essential.
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The right marinade not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring every bite of your kebab is juicy and satisfying.
How long to marinate beef kebabs?
The marinating time can make or break your beef kebab recipe. For best results, you should marinate the beef for at least 2–4 hours so the flavors soak in and the meat starts to tenderize.
If you have more time, letting the beef rest in the marinade overnight (8–12 hours) will give you maximum flavor and juiciness.
Important Tip: Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours. Over-marinating can break down the fibers too much, making the beef mushy instead of tender.
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If you’re short on time, even a quick 30–45 minute marinade will add some flavor, but the longer you allow the beef to rest, the better your kebabs will taste.
Homemade Beef Kebab Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your beef is well-marinated and ready, it’s time to assemble and cook your kebabs.
Follow these steps for perfectly grilled, flavorful skewers every time:
Step 1: Boil the Beef
- Place beef cubes in a pot.
- Add seasoning cube, garlic/ginger powder, thyme, curry, rosemary, chopped onion, and a little salt.
- Pour in just enough water to cover the beef.
- Boil until the meat is tender, then separate the beef from the stock (keep stock for soups or rice).
Step 2: Fry the Beef
- Heat groundnut oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the boiled beef in batches until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Drain in a sieve and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a clean pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Add chopped fresh tomatoes, blended pepper, carrots, and onions.
- Stir-fry for a few minutes until the raw tomato smell fades.
- Stir in ketchup and adjust seasoning.
- Keep it light, don’t let it turn into a heavy stew.
Step 4: Coat the Beef in Sauce
- Add the fried beef into the sauce.
- Stir until all the pieces are well coated.
- Let it cook on low heat for 3–5 minutes, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Prepare Plantains and Vegetables
- Slice plantains into medium chunks. Fry half until golden brown and set the rest aside uncooked.
- Lightly stir-fry carrot and onion chunks for a few minutes.
- Leave some bell peppers raw for a fresh crunch.
Step 6: Assemble the Kebabs
- Take skewers and thread them in this order:
- 2 pieces of beef
- 2 pieces of plantain (fried and fresh mixed)
- 1 vegetable piece (carrot, onion, or bell pepper)
- Repeat the sequence until the skewer is filled.
- Arrange for a colorful look.
Beef Kebab and Plantain Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot as a snack or main dish.
- Pair with jollof rice, fried rice, or flatbread.
- Add a side of pepper sauce or extra ketchup for dipping.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Oven-Grill: Bake skewers at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes, turning once.
- Stovetop Grill Pan: Grill skewers on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, brushing lightly with oil.
- Charcoal Grill: Cook over hot charcoal for a smoky flavor, turning until beef and plantain edges char.
Pro Tip: Brush the kebabs with a little leftover marinade or ketchup during the last few minutes of cooking for extra shine and flavor.
Homestyle Beef Kebab with Plantain Recipe
These juicy, flavorful beef kebabs with plantain are the perfect mix of tender meat, sweet plantain, and colorful veggies.
Made with a light stir-fry sauce and fried to golden perfection, they’re a real crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, parties, or even a simple weekend meal.
Conclusion
Making homemade kebabs doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right cut of beef, a flavorful marinade, and a few fresh vegetables, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
This beef kebab recipe is perfect for family gatherings, backyard barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying and flavorful.
By following the simple steps in this guide, you’ll end up with juicy, tender skewers that everyone will love.
So fire up your grill, grab your skewers, and enjoy the unbeatable taste of freshly made beef kebabs right at home.
