Traditional Rwandan: Grilled Meat Skewers

Traditional Rwandan: Grilled Meat Skewers

Prep35 min
Cook15 min
Servings8
DifficultyMedium
Sébastien RossBy Menucochon|
|Updated: Dec 15, 2025

The history of the recipe for \\

Preparation

Instructions

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  1. Step 1

    Reorganization of steps:

  2. Step 2

    Step 1 : Preparation of marinade In a bowl, mix chopped onion, crushed garlic, vegetable oil, tomato paste, paprika, curry, salt and black pepper to prepare the marinade for meat skewers.

  3. Step 3

    Step 2 : Marination of meat Add cubes of meat to the marinade and mix carefully to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and let marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to intensify flavors.

  4. Step 4

    Step 3 : Preparation of Ugali In a saucepan, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to medium and gradually add cornmeal while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

  5. Step 5

    Step 4 : Resting of Ugali Remove saucepan from heat once Ugali reaches desired consistency. Cover saucepan and let rest a few minutes for Ugali to firm up.

  6. Step 6

    Step 5 : Preheating of grill Preheat the grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.

  7. Step 7

    Step 6 : Threading of skewers Thread marinated meat pieces onto wooden or metal skewers.

  8. Step 8

    Step 7 : Grilling of skewers Grill the marinated meat skewers on the preheated grill, turning occasionally, until cooked and slightly caramelized.

  9. Step 9

    Step 8 : Serving Serve grilled meat skewers with Ugali. Accompany this dish with a Rwandan spicy sauce and fresh salad for an authentic Rwandan culinary experience. Bon appétit!

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, the meat used in this recipe was beef, chicken, or goat, common livestock in Rwanda. These meats were cut into cubes, marinated in a mixture of local spices, then threaded onto wooden or metal skewers before being grilled over hot embers.

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The traditional accompaniment to this dish, Ugali, is a maize meal preparation cooked in water. It has become a staple food in Rwanda due to its simplicity, affordability, and nutritional value.

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Over time, this recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, and each family has added their personal touches and variations of spices, resulting in numerous regional versions of this preparation.

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Today, meat skewers with Ugali are still highly appreciated in Rwanda and are also served in traditional restaurants in the country. This flavorful dish has become an icon of Rwandan cuisine, reflecting its culinary history and customs.

Frequently Asked Questions

6 questions about this recipe

To nail Traditional Rwandan: Grilled Meat Skewers, measure accurately, control heat, and avoid overcooking. Small details like resting time and final seasoning make the biggest difference.

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Skill Progression

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