Juicy Grilled Beef Skewers with Middle Eastern Yogurt Dipping Sauce
- Eliane Muskus
- May 3
- 2 min read
Tender beef marinated in herbs, spices, and olive oil, paired with a refreshing yogurt dipping sauce.
There's something truly special about tender, juicy beef skewers fresh off the grill — especially when they're marinated in fragrant Middle Eastern spices and served with a cool, creamy yogurt dipping sauce. This easy, flavor-packed recipe is perfect for a relaxed gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a festive Mediterranean feast. Light, aromatic, and delicious, these beef skewers are a must-try!
Juicy Grilled Beef Skewers with Middle Eastern Yogurt Dipping Sauce
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes + 3-4 hours marinating time
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (depending on grill heat and size of the beef cubes)
time)
👩🍳 Tip: a longer marinating time enhances the flavor of the beef skewers.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Skewers:
600g beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into large cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon sumac (optional, for brightness)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
Juice of ½ lemon
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Middle Eastern Yogurt Sauce:
200g Greek yogurt (full fat)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Optional: a sprinkle of dried mint or za’atar for garnish
Preparation:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, sumac (if using), minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk well.
Add the beef cubes to the marinade, tossing until every piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 4 hours, to let the flavors infuse.
2. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, cumin, grated garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. If desired, sprinkle with a little dried mint or za’atar just before serving for extra flavor.
3. Grill the Beef:
Thread the marinated beef cubes onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the beef skewers for about 2–3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the cubes, until they are nicely charred on the outside but still juicy inside.
4. Serve:
Arrange the grilled beef skewers on a serving platter with a side of fresh arugula or your favorite greens. Serve with the chilled yogurt dipping sauce for a perfect Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
👩🍳 Serving Tip:
Pair these beef skewers with warm pita bread, a fresh tabbouleh salad, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad for a complete Mediterranean spread.
