1. Marinate the Beef:
- Prepare Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, sriracha, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
- Marinate Beef:
- Add the beef cubes to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
- Blend Ingredients:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red chili (if using). Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Liquid Ingredients:
- Add the red wine vinegar and olive oil to the mixture. Blend until well combined and smooth.
- Season:
- Stir in the dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the vinegar and oil if needed to achieve your desired flavor and consistency. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat Grill or Broiler:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or preheat your broiler in the oven.
- Skewer the Beef:
- Thread the marinated beef cubes onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Grill or Broil:
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be about 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C). If broiling, place the skewers on a broiler pan and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Serve:
- Plate the Skewers:
- Arrange the beef skewers on a serving platter.
- Serve with Chimichurri:
- Serve the skewers with a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with side dishes like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Heat Adjustment:
- Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You can also use a milder hot sauce if you prefer less spice.
- Vegetarian Option:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms. Marinate and grill or broil as you would the beef.
- Chimichurri Variations:
- Experiment with adding different herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist on the chimichurri.
- Skewer Alternatives:
- If you don’t have skewers, you can also cook the marinated beef cubes on a grill pan or in the oven on a broiler pan.
Conclusion
These Spicy Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce offer a fantastic combination of spicy, savory beef and fresh, herbaceous sauce. They’re perfect for grilling season or anytime you want a flavorful, satisfying meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and deliciously tender beef with a zesty chimichurri sauce that complements every bite!