- Recipes
- Espetada Madeirense, grilled beef skewers from Madeira
Espetada Madeirense, grilled beef skewers from Madeira
Ingredients
Step by step process
Marinating the beef
- 1
Espetada madeirense starts with the meat. Cut the beef sirloin into large cubes (approx. 5 × 5 cm). Peel the garlic and slice thinly or crush gently.
- 2
Place the beef in a bowl and add the garlic, bay leaves, sea salt, red wine and olive oil. Mix well and marinate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavour.
Preparing the skewers
- 3
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Traditionally on Madeira, laurel branch skewers are used, which impart a distinctive aroma to the meat.
- 4
Thread the marinated beef onto the skewers, do not pack the pieces too tightly so the heat can circulate and the meat browns on all sides.
Grilling and serving
- 5
Heat the grill to high temperature (ideally charcoal or wood-fired). Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. The finished meat should be tender, juicy and lightly charred.
- 6
Serve immediately, the traditional Madeiran side dish is milho frito (fried cornmeal polenta) or fresh rustic bread to soak up the juices.
More tips:
Do not pack the meat tightly on skewers, gaps let heat brown every side.
Grill over charcoal, the smoke gives the meat its typical Madeiran flavor.
Similar recipes
Topic: Portuguese Cuisine
The best marinades for meat, fish, and vegetables: proven combinations that enhance flavor and juiciness
The best marinades for meat, fish, and vegetables. Proven recipes and practical tips for perfectly juicy meat, tender fish, and richly flavored vegetables every time you prepare them.
