Authentic Tibetan Gyuma: Homemade Blood Sausage Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of beef (choose a cut with some fat like chuck or short rib)
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of mirin
  • 1 tablespoon of sake
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablepoon of ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 5-6 bamboo skewers
  • 1 tablespoon of cooking oil (for grilling)

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Add the beef cubes into the marinade. Mix thoroughly to ensure that each piece is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the fridge for better flavor.
  4. Soak the bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  5. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the bamboo skewers.
  6. Preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Lightly brush with cooking oil.
  7. Grill the beef skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
  8. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Bamboo skewers - Used to thread the marinated beef cubes for grilling.
  • Mixing bowl - Used to combine the marinade ingredients and coat the beef cubes.
  • Grill or grill pan - Used to cook the beef skewers.
  • Brush - Used to lightly brush the grill or grill pan with cooking oil.

Recipe variations

  • Try using different cuts of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, for a different flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different marinades, like adding Korean chili paste (gochujang) for a spicy kick or honey for a sweeter taste.
  • Add your favorite vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, for added flavor and variety.
  • For a meat-free option, substitute the beef with tofu or seitan and adjust the marinade accordingly.
  • If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the skewers over charcoal instead of using a grill pan.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a citrusy twist.
  • Sprinkle some chopped scallions or cilantro on top of the cooked gyuma for a fresh herbal flavor.
  • For a stronger umami taste, add a splash of fish sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.
  • Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, cumin, or Chinese five-spice powder to create unique flavor profiles.

Recipe overview

This is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Gyuma, a traditional Asian-style grilled beef skewer. The beef is first marinated in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, mirin, sake, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, which imparts a savory, slightly sweet taste. After marinating, the beef is threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy, and mouth-watering dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a family barbecue, a picnic, or a simple weeknight dinner, this Gyuma recipe is sure to impress. It's a straightforward process, but the key is to allow enough time for the beef to marinate, so plan ahead. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes, you can use a different type of meat like pork or chicken, but the cooking time may vary.
  2. Can I marinate the beef for less than 2 hours?
    While marinating the beef for at least 2 hours is recommended for maximum flavor, you can marinate it for a shorter time if needed.
  3. Can I cook the beef skewers on a stovetop instead of a grill?
    Yes, you can use a grill pan or a regular stovetop pan to cook the beef skewers if you don't have access to a grill.
  4. What can I serve Gyuma with?
    Gyuma goes well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.
  5. Can I double or halve the recipe?
    Yes, you can adjust the recipe quantity according to your needs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or Grill Pan - A grill or grill pan is essential for cooking the beef skewers to perfection.
  • Bamboo Skewers - Bamboo skewers are used to thread the marinated beef cubes and can be easily grilled.
  • Mixing Bowl - A mixing bowl is needed to combine the marinade ingredients and coat the beef cubes evenly.
  • Cooking Brush - A cooking brush is helpful for brushing the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Knife - A knife is required to cut the beef into cubes before marinating.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting the beef.

Origin stories

Gyuma is a traditional delicacy that hails from the scenic valleys of Sikkim, a state in northeastern India nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas. This delightful skewered meat dish has been a cherished part of the local cuisine for generations, ingrained deeply in the culinary heritage of the indigenous Bhutia community. What sets Gyuma apart is not just its savoury flavours, but also the unique preparation technique which involves fresh yak meat, a testament to the region's yak rearing tradition. The recipe has been passed down through generations, retaining its authentic taste and charm. As you bite into a skewer of Gyuma, you're not just tasting a dish, but experiencing a slice of Sikkim's rich and vibrant culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.