Anticuchos de corazón are one of Peru’s most loved street foods: marinated beef heart skewers cooked over high heat until smoky and tender.
Aji panca, vinegar, garlic, cumin, and oregano create a deep marinade that complements the beef without hiding its savory character.
Trim the beef heart carefully and cut it into even cubes so every skewer cooks at the same pace over a hot grill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted potatoes, creamy aji amarillo sauce, choclo, or a crisp tomato and onion salad.
Recipe Notes
Marinate overnight for the fullest flavor. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
Peruvian Anticuchos de Corazón
Smoky grilled beef heart skewers marinated with aji panca, vinegar, garlic, cumin, and oregano.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
- Chef’s knife
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
Anticuchos
- 1 1/2 lb beef heart trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp aji panca paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil plus more for the grill
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 skewers metal or soaked wooden skewers
To Serve
- 2 lb baby potatoes roasted
- 1/2 cup aji amarillo sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 large lime cut into wedges
Instructions
Marinate:
- Whisk vinegar, aji panca, oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add the beef heart and toss well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Grill:
- Thread the beef onto skewers. Heat a grill or grill pan until very hot and oil the grates.
- Grill the skewers for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning until charred and cooked to your preferred doneness. Rest briefly.
Serve:
- Arrange the anticuchos with roasted potatoes, aji amarillo sauce, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Notes
- A hot grill is essential for quick browning and tender results.
- For food safety, use an instant-read thermometer and follow the doneness guidance appropriate for your beef.
Nutrition
Calories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4g