Moskva Skewer

Introduction

The Moskva Skewer is a culinary delight hailing from the vibrant streets of Moscow, taking inspiration from the traditional Russian shashlik, a dish that has been adored for centuries across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. This skewered meat recipe has illustrated cultural exchanges throughout history, primarily during the time of the Russian Empire. Thanks to the cultural melting pot that Moscow has always represented, the Moskva Skewer has adapted flavors and techniques from neighboring Asia, the Middle East, and the diverse regions of Russia, resulting in a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients

The Moskva Skewer captures the essence of Moscow’s rich gastronomic scene. To embark on the creation of this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• Beef - 1kg, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Onion - 2 large, grated
• Kefir - 200ml
• Paprika - 2 teaspoons
• Coriander - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon, freshly grounded
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Bell Peppers - 2, cut into squares
• Cherry Tomatoes - 10
• Mushrooms - 200g, whole
• Olive Oil - 50ml

Preparation

Marinating the Meat

Preparing a delightful Moskva Skewer begins with the marination process, essential for imbuing the beef with a spectrum of rich flavors.

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated onion, kefir, paprika, coriander, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the beef cubes into the bowl ensuring that each piece is generously coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to seep deep into the meat. For optimum flavor, marinate overnight.

Preparing the Skewers

While waiting for the beef to marinate, let's prepare the vegetables that will accompany the meat on the skewers.

1. Rinse and prepare the bell peppers by cutting them into square pieces.
2. Wash the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Skewers

Once the ingredients are ready, it's time to assemble the Moskva Skewers.

1. Thread the marinated beef, alternating with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms onto the skewers.
2. Both bamboo and metal skewers work well, but if using bamboo, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking, to avoid burning.

Grilling the Skewers

The grilling process is crucial as it imparts a smoky flavor that complements the marinated beef beautifully. Cooking time may vary, so be sure to monitor the heat closely to achieve perfect skewers.

1. Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the skewers with olive oil to ensure they don't stick to the grill.
3. Place the skewers onto the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, rotating them occasionally to allow even cooking on all sides.
4. The internal temperature of the beef should reach at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. You can measure the ket temperature with a meat thermometer.

Don't forget to keep a cooking timer handy to track the grilling process accurately.

Serving Suggestions

The finished Moskva Skewer is best enjoyed immediately after grilling, when the flavors are fresh and the juices are locked within the grilled beef. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair the skewers with a simple side salad, using fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing to complement the flavors of the skewers.
• Serve with a side of Russian bread, such as Borodinsky, renowned for its rich, rye-based flavor.
• A glass of chilled Russian beer or a fruity red wine pairs wonderfully with this dish.

The Moskva Skewer offers a tantalizing array of flavors which reflect the vibrant heart of Moscow itself—a testament to its historical richness and culinary diversity.