Spit-roasted barbecue: how to make it and what cuts to choose!

Skewer barbecue is a cherished tradition around the world — and especially in Brazil, for its simplicity and ability to enhance the flavor of meats. This versatile method of grilling meats allows for preparations ranging from beef cuts to vegetarian options, such as grilled vegetables.

So, being a versatile, practical, and delicious option, shall we learn how to make skewer barbecue? In this guide, in addition to learning the steps of the barbecue process, you will also learn the most suitable times for preparation and how to choose the best tools.

Discover the traditional skewer barbecue

The first thing that differentiates skewer barbecue from other barbecue options is the way the meat is prepared and cooked. Here, metal or wooden skewers are used to hold the meat over the fire, allowing for even cooking and the possibility of rotating the meat, controlling the temperature to achieve the ideal doneness.

Due to its practicality and simplicity of preparation, the skewer barbecue technique captivates palates worldwide, being ideal for moments of relaxation, where various skewers are very welcome.

Best meat cuts for skewer barbecue

Now that you are more familiar with the concept of skewer barbecue and its differences from the classic approach, let's look at the best meat cuts for this preparation.

• If you're a fan of popular beef cuts, go for picanha (sirloin cap) and alcatra (top sirloin), as they have a layer of fat that melts during cooking, providing a unique flavor;

• For pork options, the suggestions are ribs and loin, which are also excellent, offering tender texture and sweet flavor;

• For poultry, chicken is versatile, especially drumettes, and can be marinated in various seasonings;

• For those who prefer vegetarian options, some vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini are healthy and delicious alternatives, especially with cheese.

Season and prepare meats properly

In addition to choosing the right meats, the correct seasoning for barbecue is fundamental in preparing a delicious skewer barbecue.

The most classic and foolproof option is coarse salt, which enhances the natural flavor of the meat. In addition to it, some fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, can be added for an aromatic touch, however, care must be taken not to overdo it and end up harming the meat's natural flavor.

Other seasonings, such as peppers and smoked paprika, impart a unique smoky aroma to the meat, ideal for those who prefer more intense flavors. Marinades based on olive oil, garlic, and lemon are also ideal, especially for chicken and fish, while pork can be seasoned with mustard and honey, creating a unique sweet and sour sauce.

Get the meat cutting right

Cutting meat correctly is one of the most important steps to ensure a successful skewer barbecue! The ideal is always to cut against the grain, as this helps maintain tenderness and facilitates chewing. Meats like picanha, alcatra, and maminha (tri-tip) should be sliced into thick pieces, approximately three to four centimeters, to retain juiciness during grilling.

Furthermore, uniform cuts ensure even cooking, preventing dry or raw spots. Here, using a sharp knife also makes all the difference by preventing the meat from tearing, compromising its texture.

Choose the ideal skewer for the perfect barbecue

The next step is choosing the ideal skewer, a step as important as selecting the meats. To learn about the different types of skewers available, we've put together a brief list, indicating which cases each of them is suitable for.

• Simple skewers: these are more basic and economical options, ideal for smaller cuts;

• Double skewers: offer greater stability for heavy cuts, suitable for larger cuts, such as ribs;

• Rotary skewers: great for those who want even and homogeneous cooking, allowing the meat to be constantly rotated over the coals;

• Stainless steel skewers: recommended for durability and corrosion resistance, in addition to being easy to clean and not altering the taste of the meat.

Light the grill to produce the perfect embers

To light the grill correctly, start by arranging the charcoal in a pyramid shape, which will allow for good air circulation. Natural fire starters or gel alcohol are great options to start the fire, as they prevent some flammable liquids from altering the taste of the meat. Remember to also adjust the grill's ventilation to control the intensity of the fire, ensuring even and long-lasting embers.

Another popular technique you can adopt is the use of charcoal starters, which facilitate ignition and ensure even burning. After that, wait for the charcoal to reach the ideal temperature before grilling the meat. The embers should be covered by a thin layer of ash, indicating evenly distributed heat.

Avoid mistakes when skewering meat

Although it seems simple, skewering meat incorrectly can pose some risks to the quality of its texture. Therefore, you should pay attention to the correct way this process should be done.

Start by distributing the pieces of meat evenly along the skewer, avoiding them being too close or overlapping. This ensures that the heat reaches all parts, providing uniform cooking and preventing raw or burnt areas.

Furthermore, avoid skewering the meat with too much force, as this can break the fibers and compromise its juiciness. Another important point is care when skewering legumes and vegetables. They should be cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure homogeneous cooking.

In the case of mixed skewers, separate the ingredients by type, as each food has a different cooking time. This way, it is possible to ensure that all ingredients are at the ideal point at the end of preparation!

Confirm and check the ideal doneness of the meat on the skewer

Checking the doneness of meat is a skill every grill master must master! Here, the touch test is a popular and effective technique, which basically consists of evaluating the firmness of the meat with your fingers.

Rare meat is soft to the touch, while well-done meat is firmer. In addition, some visual signs, such as color and the presence of juices, help determine the ideal doneness.

For those who prefer a more precise method, try meat thermometers! They measure the internal temperature of the meat, ensuring it is at the desired doneness.

It is also worth noting that each type of meat has its ideal cooking temperature, so it is important to know the specifications of each cut. After cooking, let the meat rest for a few minutes; this will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a succulent texture.

Ideal occasions for skewer barbecue

In addition to being practical and simple, another advantage of skewer barbecue is its versatility for various occasions. From family barbecues on a sunny Sunday to smaller and more intimate events, this preparation method is always welcome. Here, the ease of preparation and the possibility of varying ingredients make skewer barbecue a popular choice for outdoor celebrations and casual gatherings.

In addition to being excellent for social gatherings, skewer barbecue is ideal for corporate events and birthday parties. Its versatility allows the menu to be adapted to different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that all guests are satisfied.

Use quality barbecue utensils

In addition to all these tips, to ensure a quality skewer barbecue, it is essential to use appropriate utensils. Knives are essential and indispensable for making precise cuts, allowing sizes to be regular and fibers to preserve their quality.

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