Paulista Espetinho Recipe

Introduction to Paulista Espetinho

Paulista Espetinho is a beloved street food hailing from São Paulo, Brazil. It consists of grilled meat skewers seasoned to perfection and is a staple at barbecues and social gatherings. This dish reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Brazil, blending different traditions and tastes that tell a story of culinary evolution.

The tradition of grilling meat over open flames dates back to indigenous tribes that inhabited the region long before the Portuguese settlers arrived. Over centuries, this simple cooking method has evolved into an art form where various techniques and seasonings are employed to create distinct flavors that are now synonymous with Brazilian cuisine.

Ingredients

• Beef (such as sirloin or rump steak)
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Onion
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Wooden or metal skewers

Preparation

To begin crafting your Paulista Espetinho, first gather your ingredients. Ensure that your beef is fresh and cut into even bite-sized pieces, approximately one-inch cubes. This allows for an even cook and ensures tenderness.

Next, take your red bell pepper and green bell pepper, removing the seeds and cutting them into similar-sized pieces as the beef. Do the same with the onion, ensuring each vegetable piece is large enough to handle grilling but not so large that it will overpower the other flavors.

Marinating the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous splash of lemon juice. Season this mixture liberally with salt and fresh cracked black pepper. Toss in the cubed beef, thoroughly coating each piece. Cover and allow it to marinate for at least two hours in the refrigerator, or ideally overnight. Marinating intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the beef, making it succulent and flavorful.

Skewering the Ingredients

Once marinating is complete, prepare your skewers. If using wooden ones, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Begin threading the ingredients onto the skewers, alternating between pieces of beef, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Press them tightly together to ensure even cooking.

Cooking the Skewers

Preheat your grill or prepare the coals until they're at medium-high heat. For the perfect Paulista Espetinho, the grill needs to be hot enough to sear the beef and vegetables quickly, creating a delicious char.

Place the skewers onto the grill, cooking each side for approximately 3-4 minutes, turning frequently to avoid burning and ensuring even cooking. The total cooking time should span around 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your beef. It's ideal when the beef is still slightly pink inside, and the vegetables are tender yet still crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows juices to redistribute, making the beef incredibly juicy.

Serve your Paulista Espetinho hot, garnished with extra lemon juice for a vibrant citrus highlight. Traditionally, this dish is enjoyed with sides such as Brazilian vinaigrette, farofa, or a simple green salad. Pair with a cold beer or a glass of caipirinha to enhance your Brazilian culinary experience.

Enjoy this classic Brazilian delight and experience a taste of São Paulo on your plate!