Thai Satay

Thai satay, also known as satay or sate, is a popular Southeast Asian dish that is enjoyed by people all around the world. This delicious and flavorful dish is made with marinated and skewered meat, which is then grilled to perfection. The meat is typically served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, and it is often accompanied by a side of cucumber salad.

The origins of Thai satay can be traced back to Indonesia, where it is believed to have been influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Over time, the dish made its way to Thailand, where it was adapted to suit the local palate. Today, Thai satay is a beloved dish in Thailand, and it is often enjoyed as a street food snack or as part of a larger meal.

The key to making delicious Thai satay lies in the marinade. The meat is typically marinated in a mixture of coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This marinade not only infuses the meat with incredible flavor but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in juicy and succulent satay.

Once the meat has been marinated, it is skewered onto bamboo sticks and grilled over an open flame. The meat is cooked until it is beautifully charred on the outside yet still tender and juicy on the inside. The aroma of the grilling meat is enough to make anyone's mouth water, and it is this smoky flavor that truly sets Thai satay apart from other grilled meats.

In addition to the delicious meat, Thai satay is often served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. This sauce is made with roasted peanuts, coconut milk, red curry paste, and a touch of sugar for sweetness. The result is a thick and luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the smoky and savory flavors of the grilled meat.

To balance out the richness of the satay and peanut sauce, it is often served with a side of cucumber salad. This refreshing salad is made with thinly sliced cucumbers, shallots, and chili peppers, which are then tossed in a tangy dressing made with vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The crisp and cool cucumber salad provides a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the satay.

Thai satay is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, pork, and even tofu for a vegetarian option. It can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a buffet-style meal. No matter how it is served, Thai satay never fails to impress with its bold flavors and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

For Marinade:

1/4 cup minced lemongrass, fresh or frozen

2 shallots, or 1/4 onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic

1 to 2 fresh red chiles, sliced, or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste

1 thumb-size piece galangal, or ginger, thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

2 tablespoons ground coriander

2 teaspoons cumin

3 tablespoons dark soy sauce 

3 tablespoons fish sauce

6 tablespoons brown sugar (you need all of this)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Meat:

8 boneless chicken thighs, cut into small, thin pieces

For Serving:

Peanut dipping sauce, for serving

Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Steps to Make:

1. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, minced garlic, finely chopped lemongrass, turmeric, and sugar. Add the sliced meat to the marinade, ensuring that it's well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.

2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, red curry paste, and lime juice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and heated through. Set aside to cool.

3. Skewer the Meat: Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, making sure to leave space at the bottom for easy handling. If you're using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.

4. Grill the Satay: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the meat is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the satay is cooked, remove it from the grill and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the skewers and garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and a wedge of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy!