How to make Cambodian beef sticks, and what are they?

Introduction: What are Cambodian beef sticks?

Cambodian beef sticks are a popular street food in Cambodia, made with marinated beef skewered and grilled to perfection. They are often served with pickled vegetables and a spicy dipping sauce. The beef sticks are a delicious and flavorful snack or meal, perfect for any occasion.

Cambodian beef sticks are a staple of Cambodian cuisine and are loved by locals and tourists alike. They are made with simple ingredients, but the marinade and grilling process give the beef a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to resist.

Ingredients needed to make Cambodian beef sticks

To make Cambodian beef sticks, you will need:

  • 1 pound of beef (flank steak or sirloin)
  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup of oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • Bamboo skewers

These ingredients are easy to find in most supermarkets and Asian grocery stores.

Preparing the meat for Cambodian beef sticks

Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. It’s important to cut the beef against the grain to ensure it stays tender. Once the beef is sliced, place it in a large bowl and set it aside.

Making the marinade for Cambodian beef sticks

In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved and the marinade is well combined.

Marinating the meat for Cambodian beef sticks

Pour the marinade over the beef and mix it well, ensuring that each strip is coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing the skewers for Cambodian beef sticks

Soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Skewering the meat for Cambodian beef sticks

Thread the marinated beef strips onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each strip to ensure even cooking.

Grilling the Cambodian beef sticks

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked to your liking.

Basting the Cambodian beef sticks while grilling

While grilling, brush the beef sticks with any remaining marinade to add extra flavor and moisture.

Serving and enjoying Cambodian beef sticks

Serve the Cambodian beef sticks hot, with pickled vegetables and a spicy dipping sauce. They make a great appetizer or main course, and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tips for making perfect Cambodian beef sticks

To ensure the beef stays tender, don’t overcook it on the grill. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the middle.

If you’re short on time, you can also marinate the beef for as little as 30 minutes, but the longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

Conclusion: Why Cambodian beef sticks are worth trying

Cambodian beef sticks are a delicious and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home. The marinade and grilling process give the beef a unique and irresistible flavor that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a fan of Cambodian cuisine or just looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, Cambodian beef sticks are definitely worth a try.

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Elise DeVoe

Elise is a seasoned food writer with seven years of experience. Her culinary journey began as Managing Editor at the College of Charleston for Spoon University, the ultimate resource for college foodies. After graduating, she launched her blog, Cookin’ with Booze, which has now transformed into captivating short-form videos on TikTok and Instagram, offering insider tips for savoring Charleston’s local cuisine.

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