Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade
Juicy cubes of beef marinated in a zesty mix of sumac, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection for a smoky and tangy flavor. This middle eastern-inspired beef ready in about 27 minutes blends beef sirloin, cut into 1.5-inch cubes, olive oil, sumac spice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp sumac spice
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 skewers wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp sumac spice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Add 1.5 lbs beef sirloin cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3 hours for maximum flavor.
- Step 3: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef cubes evenly onto 8 soaked wooden skewers.
- Step 4: Grill kebabs for 3-4 minutes per side or until the beef is cooked to your preferred doneness and has a slight char.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with flatbread, salad, or rice.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade take to make?
Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Seared Beef Kebabs with Sumac and Fresh Herb Marinade?
Middle Eastern beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
