Basturma Sandwich Recipes

BASTURMA (RUSSIAN MARINATED SKEWERED BEEF)

Steps:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the onion, basil, salt, pepper and vinegar.
• Add the meat and toss it in the marinade to coat it thoroughly, then marinate at room temperature for 5-6 hours, tossing again every hour or so to keep the cubes moist.
• Light a layer of coals in a charcoal broiler and burn until a white ash appears on the surface, or preheat your kitchen broiler to its highest point.
• Remove the meat from the marinade and string them on 4 long skewers, pressing them firmly together.
• Broil 4" from the source of the heat, turning the skewers occasionally, until the meat is done to your taste (For rare allow about 10 minutes. Well done will take about 15).
• Slide the meat off onto individual plates and garnish with scallions, lemon, and coriander or parsley.

ARMENIAN BASTERMA (DRIED CURED BEEF)

Steps:

• Select very tender cut of beef from rib part, about one and a half inch thick, any length you desire (approx. 8").
• Insert heavy string through one end and make a loop.
• Rub meat with salt and let stand in refrigerator for 3 days placing a heavy item on top and turn once a day.
• Wash meat well with cold water and leave in clear water for one hour.
• Then drain and press between towels to remove moisture.
• Continue until meat is quite dry.
• Hang in cool airy place to dry about two weeks.
• Combine all above ingredients to make the Chairnen.
• Add water a little at a time to make thick paste.
• Soak meat in it for 2 weeks.
• Hang in airy place for 2 more weeks.
• May be used immediately, refrigerated, or frozen.
• NOTE: A cheese cloth casing may be used to slip meat into before hanging.