Kyinkyinga (Beef and Pepper Kebabs)
Kyinkyinga are flavorful grilled skewers of marinated beef and bell peppers, often sold as street food in Mali. They are typically seasoned with a blend of spices and ground peanuts, and served with a savory sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 900 g Lean beef steak(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 medium Bell peppers (mixed colors)(cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 medium Onions(cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 60 g Ground roasted peanuts(for garnish)
- 2 medium Onions(diced, for marinade)
- 10 g Ginger(grated, for marinade)
- 30 g All-purpose flour(for marinade)
- 60 g Ground roasted peanuts(for marinade)
- 2 large Tomatoes(peeled and mashed, for marinade)
- 15 g Garlic(minced, for marinade)
- Salt(to taste, for marinade)
- 1 Tbs Sambal chili paste(for marinade)
- 2 Tbs Vegetable oil(for grilling)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add the cubed beef and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- 2
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- 3
Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the soaked skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and onion.
💡 Tip: Leave a small space between pieces for even cooking. - 4
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil.
💡 Tip: Alternatively, you can broil the kebabs in the oven. - 5
Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked through and nicely browned.
- 6
While the kebabs are grilling, transfer the leftover marinade to a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the onions are softened, about 10-15 minutes. Blend the sauce until smooth.
- 7
Serve the Kyinkyinga hot, garnished with ground roasted peanuts, and with the blended sauce spooned over the top. Traditionally served with rice.
💡 Tip: The sauce can also be served on the side for dipping.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the beef is cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- ✓Do not overcook the beef, especially if using leaner cuts, to keep it tender.
- ✓Adjust the chili paste to your preferred level of spice.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
- Use lamb or goat meat instead of beef.
- For a spicier marinade, add more chili paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper.