Muqmad Karriye (Spicy Beef Skewers)
Muqmad Karriye is a popular Somali street food, featuring marinated and grilled beef skewers with a spicy, tangy glaze. It's often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef sirloin or tenderloin(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1-2 tbsp Harissa paste(adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 8-10 Wooden skewers(soaked in water for 30 minutes)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine the beef cubes with chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemon juice, tomato paste, harissa paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all beef pieces are coated.
💡 Tip: Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. - 2
Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking. - 3
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with vegetable oil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked through and slightly charred.
⏱️ 12-16 minutes💡 Tip: Turn the skewers frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. - 5
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add more harissa paste or a pinch of red chili flakes to the marinade.
- ✓If grilling indoors, a cast-iron skillet can also be used.
- ✓Serve with a side of Somali flatbread (sabaayad) or rice.
🔄 Variations
- Add bell pepper and onion chunks to the skewers for a vegetable medley.
- Marinate with a touch of soy sauce for an umami boost.