Espetada madeirense
Gather around for a traditional Espetada madeirense, a heartwarming dish perfect for family meals and celebrations.
Whenever I think about Sundays in Madeira, the first thing that comes to mind is gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories over a delicious meal. One dish that always steals the show is the Espetada madeirense. It’s not just food; it’s a beloved tradition that brings everyone together, often enjoyed at a cozy tasca or during festive celebrations.
The magic of the Espetada madeirense lies in its simplicity. You take tender cubes of marinated beef, thread them onto skewers with fragrant laurel leaves, and then grill them over an open flame. The smoky aroma wafting through the air is irresistible! Typically, it’s served alongside milho frito and a fresh salad, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. Every bite reminds me of those sunny days filled with joy, where good food and great company are what truly matter.
Ingredients · 4 servings
- 800 g beef (preferably sirloin or shoulder)
- 4 laurel leaves
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 100 ml olive oil
- 2 tsp coarse sea salt
- Black pepper to taste
Method
- Cut the beef into 3-4 cm cubes.
- In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the beef cubes in the garlic mixture for at least 1 hour.
- Skewer the marinated beef cubes onto the laurel leaves, alternating with a few pieces of salt if desired.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness is achieved.
- Serve hot with milho frito and a fresh salad.