Description
Souvlaki Beef Shish Kebabs feature tender cubes of beef marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and Mediterranean spices. Grilled to perfection with charred edges and juicy interiors, these kebabs bring authentic Greek flavors ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or weekend gatherings. Serve alongside pita bread, tzatziki, and Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Ingredients
For the Beef Kebabs
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, optional
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Serving
- Warm pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Greek salad, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cumin to create the flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the beef: Add the beef cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 2–4 hours, to allow the flavors to develop fully.
- Prepare the vegetables: Cut the red and green bell peppers and red onion into uniform chunks similar in size to the beef cubes for even cooking.
- Assemble the skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes if using. Thread beef cubes alternating with bell pepper and onion chunks, leaving space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the grill: Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking before cooking.
- Grill the kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is browned with slightly charred edges and reached your preferred doneness.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for safety, then let rest 3 minutes.
- Rest the meat: Remove kebabs from grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes to retain juiciness.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and optionally Greek salad.
Notes
- Choose tender beef cuts such as sirloin for flavor or tenderloin for softer texture.
- Do not skip the marinating step; it enhances flavor and tenderizes meat.
- Avoid marinating the beef longer than 8 hours to prevent overly soft texture from the acidic marinade.
- Cut beef into uniform cubes and do not overcrowd skewers to ensure even cooking.
- Alternatively, cook kebabs under an oven broiler, turning frequently until desired doneness.
- For a complete meal, serve with lemon rice, roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
- Store leftover cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
