Among the many cultural festivals that adorn the African continent, the Der es Salaam Festival in Tanzania is one of the most celebrated. In this article, we delve into one of the most served meals in the Der es Salaam Festival: “Mishkaki.” This is basically a meal of grilled meat garnished with vegetables and spices, so let’s get into it.

 

 

Ingredients

1 kg of tender meat (beef, chicken, or lamb), cut into bite-sized cubes

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated

2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

2 tablespoons of soy sauce

1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon of tomato paste

1 teaspoon of paprika

1 teaspoon of ground cumin

1 teaspoon of ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Salt, to taste

Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

 

 

Instructions

 

Marinate the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, vegetable oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt.

Add the bite-sized meat cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to meld and the meat to tenderize.

 

 

Skewer the Meat

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing red.

Thread the marinated meat cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

 

 

Grill the Mishkaki

Place the skewers on the preheated grill, positioning them directly over the heat source.

Grill the Mishkaki for 8-10 minutes on each side or until the meat is cooked and has developed a golden-brown crust.

Baste the skewers with any remaining marinade or oil while grilling to keep the meat moist and flavourful.

Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the Mishkaki from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.

Serve and Enjoy.

 

 

The Mishkaki has always been a delicacy enjoyed at every yearly festival, and now you can enjoy the yumminess of Tanzania right in your home. Also do well to garnish the Mishkaki with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.

Serve the grilled skewers hot alongside your favourite accompaniments, such as chapati, rice, or a crisp salad.

Don’t forget to provide some extra marinade or dipping sauce on the side for added flavour and indulgence.

Enjoy the succulent and aromatic flavours of Mishkaki with family and friends, savouring each bite of this delectable East African delicacy.

 

Johnson Chukwueke
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