Beef and Vegetable Skewers with Peanut Sauce

For 2 servings

• beef sirloin, cut into strips250 g
• soy sauce1 tbsp
• ground cumin1 tsp
• ground coriander1 tsp
• turmeric1/2 tsp
• vegetable oil1 tbsp
• peanut butter3 tbsp
• warm water2 tbsp
• soy sauce (for the sauce)1 tbsp
• lime juice1 tsp
• chilli flakes (optional)1/2 tsp

1. 1

   Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, roughly the width of your thumb, cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibres and makes the meat much more tender once cooked, cutting with the grain gives a chewier result.

2. 2

   In a bowl, mix the beef strips with the soy sauce, cumin, coriander and turmeric, making sure every strip is coated. Cover and leave to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or longer in the fridge if you have time, this lets the spices penetrate rather than just sitting on the surface.

3. 3

   If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes before threading the meat, this stops them scorching and catching fire on the grill.

4. 4

   Thread the marinated beef strips onto the skewers, weaving them slightly back and forth rather than piercing straight through, this helps them sit flat on the grill and cook evenly.

5. 5

   Heat the oil in a griddle pan or frying pan over medium high heat until you can feel the heat rising off it. Cook the skewers for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, you're looking for a good char and browning on the outside, while the inside stays pink to your liking, beef sirloin is best not overcooked, or it turns tough rather than tender.

6. 6

   While the beef cooks, make the sauce, in a small bowl mix the peanut butter, warm water, soy sauce, lime juice and chilli flakes, if using. Stir until smooth and pourable, adding the water gradually, if it seizes up and looks too thick, add a touch more warm water a teaspoon at a time until it loosens.

7. 7

   Serve the skewers hot with the peanut sauce alongside for dipping.