the treadmill diaries

Oh yeah, that’s what I said.  Peanut. Butter. Meat. on. a. Stick.

The inspiration for this creative attempt came from my Little Sis during our visit this past weekend.  She was filling me in on the end of the school year and how it wrapped up with cultural day in her elementary school. 

This is a day where every student talks about their family’s heritage and culture and brings something in to share with the class that represents it.   She was so excited about the Mexican food she tasted, the huge pieces of fried dough her classmate made, and wasn’t thrilled with the boy who brought in tomatoes. 

When I asked about her dish, she mentioned bringing in a yellow rice recipe which the kids seemed to like.  But, that was just the beginning.  She then got on a roll about her very favorite African dishes – meat on a stick which is often eaten at get togethers and peanut butter soup which includes meat, onions, and peanut butter. 

Because the flavor combinations intrigued me, I decided to bring them together to create a peanut butter marinade that I used on beef and onions and then skewered them. 

Whisk the following ingredients together to make the marinade.  It’ll have a creamy consistency once ready:

• 1/4 cup reduced fat, creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp ginger finely grated

Then, what you’ll need are:

• 1 lb beef, cut into 1 -2 inch cubes  (I’m planning on chicken or pork next time)
• 1 large onion, cut into 1-2 inch chunks
• 2-3 skewers

1. Mix the beef, onions and the marinade together in a large bowl and allow them to rest covered in the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes
2. Then, assemble your skewers – alternating chunks of beef and onion
3. Grill for a total of 15-20 minutes on medium-high heat, flipping them every 4-5 minutes
4. Remove from heat when done to your preferred meat temp & allow to rest for 5 min

These skewers sear up really nicely and have charred bits of peanut butter on the outer edges when done.  The marinade also has a creamy, salty texture that keeps the meat tender and moist. 

For a random attempt at making this, I have to say it came out pretty good.  Next time, I plan to add a hint of sweetness to mellow it out – with either honey or juice. 

I have to thank my Little Sis for sharing her family’s favorite treats so I could come up with this treat of my own.