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Peruvian Anticuchos: Grilling Guide

Peruvian Anticuchos: Grilling Guide

Krysta
Peruvian Anticuchos are savory beef heart skewers, a popular street food known for their rich flavor from a distinctive marinade of garlic, vinegar, cumin, and aji panca chili paste.
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 42 minutes
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg beef heart trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 tbsp aji panca paste
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil plus more for brushing
  • 12 wooden skewers soaked in water

Instructions
 

  • Trim any excess fat and membranes from the beef heart, then cut it into approximately 1-inch cubes. Rinse the cubes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
  • In a large bowl, combine the aji panca paste, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix well to create the marinade.
  • Add the beef heart cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and tenderize the meat.
  • When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef heart cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, typically 3-4 pieces per skewer.
  • Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the hot grill.
  • Cook the Anticuchos for 2-3 minutes per side, turning frequently, until they are nicely charred on the exterior and cooked through to your desired doneness. You can baste with any leftover marinade during grilling, but discard any marinade that has touched raw meat after basting.
  • Remove from the grill and serve immediately. Traditionally, Anticuchos are served with boiled yellow potatoes and a spicy aji sauce.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the beef heart for at least 4 hours or overnight. If beef heart is unavailable, beef tenderloin or sirloin can be used, though the texture and traditional flavor will vary. Serve with boiled yellow potatoes and a spicy aji sauce.
Keyword Peruvian street food, beef heart skewers, aji panca recipe, traditional Peruvian, grilled meat