Beef Mishkaki
If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful dish that brings a taste of East African cuisine right to your kitchen, then Beef Mishkaki is the perfect recipe to try. This skewered beef dish is beloved for its tender meat marinated in a blend of spices, making it an irresistible option for any meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends, Beef Mishkaki is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Top Reasons to Make Beef Mishkaki

- Flavor Explosion: The marinade, infused with spices and seasonings, creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Beef Mishkaki can be made quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Great for Gatherings: Skewers are fun and interactive, making them a hit at parties and gatherings.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
Shopping List
- 1 tablespoon beef seasoning powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Arabic spice powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1.5 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- Beef (choose your preferred cut)
- 2-3 tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon dark mushroom soy sauce
- 1 tamarind
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 medium-sized onion
- 2 green chili peppers
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
Hardware & Gadgets
- Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers will work. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for marinating the beef.
- Grill or Grill Pan: Either will work to give the beef that delicious charred flavor.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables and beef into proper sizes.
Step-by-Step: Beef Mishkaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the beef seasoning powder, coriander powder, chili powder, cumin powder, Arabic spice powder, ground black pepper, vinegar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Cut the Beef
Cut your chosen beef into bite-sized cubes. The key is to make sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Add the beef cubes to the marinade mixture. Toss everything together until the beef is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is marinating, chop the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper into large chunks. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Skewers
Once the beef is marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Alternate threading the marinated beef, onion, and bell peppers onto the skewers.
Step 6: Grill the Mishkaki
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve Beef Mishkaki hot with fresh tomatoes, sliced onions, and a drizzle of dark mushroom soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

- Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of dark mushroom soy sauce if needed.
- Ensure that all spice blends are gluten-free.
- No dairy ingredients are included in this recipe, making it naturally dairy-free.
Cook’s Commentary
Beef Mishkaki is incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different spices and even use chicken or lamb instead of beef if you prefer. The key to a great Beef Mishkaki is the marination time; the longer you let it sit, the more flavorful your skewers will be. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
- Leftover Beef Mishkaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm them up on a grill or in a pan over medium heat until heated through.
- If you want to freeze the skewers, it’s best to do so before grilling. Marinate the beef and vegetables, then freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for Beef Mishkaki?
Absolutely! Chicken, lamb, or even vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh can be used in place of beef.
How spicy is Beef Mishkaki?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to add more or fewer chili peppers or use a milder chili powder.
What can I serve with Beef Mishkaki?
Beef Mishkaki pairs well with rice, flatbreads, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a yogurt sauce or hummus for extra flavor.
Can I make Beef Mishkaki ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef the night before and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the skewers and grill them when you’re ready to serve.
Keep Cooking
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for amazing dessert recipes
- Pinch of Yum for delicious meal ideas
- Minimalist Baker for simple and easy recipes
- Food Network for a wide variety of recipes
Wrap-Up
Beef Mishkaki is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and delightful aromas. With its simple preparation and the ability to customize, you can create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking indoors, this recipe will transport you to a world of culinary delight. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the tasty journey of making Beef Mishkaki!

Beef Mishkaki
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by combining the beef seasoning powder, coriander powder, chili powder, cumin powder, Arabic spice powder, ground black pepper, vinegar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut your chosen beef into bite-sized cubes. The key is to make sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
- Add the beef cubes to the marinade mixture. Toss everything together until the beef is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
- While the beef is marinating, chop the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper into large chunks. Set aside.
- Once the beef is marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Alternate threading the marinated beef, onion, and bell peppers onto the skewers.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve Beef Mishkaki hot with fresh tomatoes, sliced onions, and a drizzle of dark mushroom soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Leftover Beef Mishkaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm them up on a grill or in a pan over medium heat until heated through.
- If you want to freeze the skewers, it’s best to do so before grilling. Marinate the beef and vegetables, then freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
