Chicken or Pork Satay

Chicken or Pork Satay is a popular and flavorful dish that originates from Southeast Asia. Thinly sliced chicken thighs or pork shoulder are marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, spices, peanut butter (or tahini), ginger, garlic, sugar, and citrus juice. The skewered meat is then grilled or broiled to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy satay skewers. Served with a dipping sauce made from the reduced marinade, these skewers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.

MAKES: 10 skewers (5 to 10 servings)

TIME: 30 minutes to 24 hours, depending on marinating time

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or approximately 3/4 pound boneless pork shoulder or loin
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup nam pla (Thai fish sauce) or more soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter or tahini
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice or vinegar
• Wooden skewers (if using, soak them in water for a few minutes)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Slice the chicken or pork into thin, approximately 1/8-inch thick slices. For easier slicing, you can freeze the meat for 15 to 30 minutes before cutting.
2. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, nam pla (or additional soy sauce), ground cumin, ground coriander, peanut butter (or tahini), minced ginger, minced garlic, sugar, and lime or lemon juice (or vinegar). Stir in 1/2 cup of water to create the marinade.
3. Place the meat slices in the marinade and mix until well coated. Let the meat sit in the marinade while you prepare the grill or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.
4. Preheat your charcoal or gas grill or broiler until it reaches a high heat. Position the rack as close to the heat source as possible.
5. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, ensuring that they are not too crowded to allow even cooking.
6. Grill or broil the skewers for a total of 5 to 8 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. Cook until the meat is cooked through and nicely browned.
7. While the meat is cooking, transfer the remaining marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil and reduce it slightly to create a dipping sauce.
8. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or broiler and serve them hot. Use the reduced marinade as a dipping sauce alongside the skewers.

TIPS FOR PREPARING CHICKEN OR PORK SATAY: 

• For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the meat for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste.
• When slicing the chicken or pork, try to make the slices as uniform as possible. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skewers.
• If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for a few minutes before threading the meat. This prevents the skewers from burning during grilling or broiling.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave a little space between the meat slices to allow heat to circulate evenly and promote proper browning.
• Keep an eye on the meat while grilling or broiling to prevent overcooking. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the meat slices and the heat intensity of your grill or broiler. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• While grilling or broiling the skewers, baste them with the marinade occasionally to add extra flavor and moisture.
• Serve the Chicken or Pork Satay hot off the grill or broiler to enjoy them at their best. The meat will be juicy and flavorful when served immediately.
• Feel free to customize the dipping sauce according to your taste preferences. Add extra spices, herbs, or chili for a spicier kick, or adjust the sweetness and acidity with sugar or lime juice.
• Consider serving the satay skewers with a side of steamed rice, cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables to complement the flavors and create a complete meal.
• Have fun with variations! Experiment with different marinade ingredients, such as lemongrass, turmeric, or chili paste, to create your own unique satay flavor profiles.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to prepare delicious and flavorful Chicken or Pork Satay skewers that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious and fragrant Chicken or Pork Satay as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger Southeast Asian-inspired feast. The tender and flavorful skewers, paired with the savory dipping sauce, are sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal.