International Cuisine > Cooking Techniques Across Cultures > Grilling & Barbecue (International) > Yakitori (Japanese)

Peruvian Anticuchos: Grilled Heart Skewers

Explore the ancient grilling traditions of Peru with Anticuchos, flavorful skewers traditionally made with marinated beef heart. This recipe provides a modern twist on this classic street food, offering a delicious and culturally rich grilling experience.

Prep Time
30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time
10-15 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Beef heart
  • 2 tbsp Aji panca paste
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • as needed Skewers

Preparing the Beef Heart

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the beef heart. Trim away any excess fat, membranes, and veins. Cut the heart into 1-inch cubes. This step is crucial for even cooking and a tender texture.

Marinating the Anticuchos

In a bowl, combine the aji panca paste, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, cumin, oregano, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Add the beef heart cubes to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Anticuchos

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated beef heart cubes onto the skewers. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the anticuchos for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred. Baste with any remaining marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.

Serving

Serve the grilled anticuchos hot off the grill. They are traditionally served with boiled potatoes, corn, and a spicy aji sauce. Enjoy this taste of Peruvian grilling heritage!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note that the following values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

  • Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Fat: 10-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 5-10g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Beef heart is a rich source of iron and other essential nutrients. However, it's also relatively high in cholesterol. Consider serving with a balanced side dish, like a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different cut of meat?

    While traditionally made with beef heart, you can substitute with other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, if preferred. However, the flavor and texture will be different.
  • What is Aji Panca?

    Aji panca is a Peruvian chili pepper with a mild, fruity flavor and a slightly smoky undertone. It's available in paste form at Latin American markets or online.
  • How can I prevent the skewers from burning?

    Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps to prevent them from burning.