Satti: The Flavorful Skewers of Mindanao

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken or beef, cut into small pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• Bamboo skewers

For the sauce:

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Marinate the chicken or beef in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and turmeric for 30 minutes.
2. Thread the meat onto bamboo skewers.
3. Grill the skewers over medium heat until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. For the sauce: Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until soft. Add peanut butter, coconut milk, and sugar, then simmer until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve the skewers with the rich coconut-peanut sauce.

Variations of Satti

While the core concept of Satti remains the same, there are some regional variations that add unique twists to the dish:

1. Spicy Satti: Some versions use extra chili or serve the sauce on the side for those who prefer a spicier version. Sambal (a chili-based dip) may also be offered as a condiment.
2. Satti with Rice: In some places, the grilled skewers of meat are served alongside steamed rice or puso (rice wrapped in coconut leaves), making it a fuller meal.
3. Satti with Other Meats: While chicken is the most common meat, some variations include beef or pork, and even fish, which can be marinated and grilled similarly to the traditional versions.