Authentic Marinated Thai Beef Satay

By
Darlene Schmidt
Darlene Schmidt
Darlene Schmidt is a cookbook author and culinary teacher who specializes in Thai cuisine.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
Updated on 10/30/21
Marinated beef satay
Juanmonino/E+/Getty Images
Prep: 30 mins
Cook: 15 mins
Total: 45 mins
Servings: 2 to 4 servings

This authentic beef satay recipe will blow you away with its abundant flavor and tenderness. The secret to good satay is all in the marinade, and this satay marinade is simply the best. It has been passed down through families in Thailand and Malaysia over many generations. This aromatic marinade features a special blend of fresh herbs and spices, yet it's very easy to make: you simply place all ingredients in a food processor. Cook your satay on an outdoor grill or in the oven. Either way, it's simply fantastic!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds beefsteak, sliced into very thin strips

  • 1/4 cup lemongrass, minced

  • 2 shallots or 1 onion, sliced

  • 4 garlic cloves

  • 1 to 2 freshly sliced red chilies or 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

  • 1 piece thumb-sized galangal or ginger, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

  • 2 tablespoons ground coriander

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce

  • 1/4 cup fish sauce

  • 5 to 6 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 2 teaspoons coconut or vegetable oil

  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom

Steps to Make It

  1. Gather the ingredients.

  2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water (to prevent burning) while you prepare meat.

  3. Place all marinade ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process well.

  4. Taste-test marinade and adjust flavors to taste. .

  5. Place beef in a bowl, pour marinade over it, and stir well to combine. Cover and marinate at least 1 hour or longer (up to 24 hours).

  6. When ready to cook, thread meat onto skewers. Fill up to 3/4 of the skewer, leaving lower half empty so the person grilling has a "handle" to easily turn satay.

  7. Grill satay on an outdoor grill, basting the first time with a little of the leftover marinade.

    To cook satay indoors: place satay on a broiling pan or baking sheet covered with aluminum foil. Set oven to broil and place satay close beneath heating element (second-to-top rung works well). Turn satay every 5 to 6 minutes until done to your liking (15 to 25 minutes).

  8. Serve with rice and easy Satay Peanut Sauce for dipping. 

Recipe Tags: