Cut 1 lb of chosen meat into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, whisk together 1 tbs coconut milk, 2 tbs soy sauce (or tamari), 1 tbs brown sugar, 1 tbs fresh lime juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp turmeric (optional), 1 tbs vegetable oil, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper until sugar dissolves.

Add the meat to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3–6 hours (up to overnight) to develop flavor.

If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated meat onto 4 skewers, distributing the pieces evenly (about 12–16 pieces per skewer depending on cube size) and leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking. Let skewers sit at room temperature 15 minutes before cooking.

Cook

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill skewers 3–5 minutes per side, turning to get even char and an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken or 135–145°F for medium beef/lamb. Total cook time about 8–12 minutes depending on meat and heat.

Remove skewers from heat and let rest 3–5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Spicy Peanut Dip

Make Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 tbs soy sauce, 1 tbs brown/palm sugar, 1 tbs fresh lime juice, 1 tsp chili paste and 1/2 tsp fish sauce (if using). Stir until smooth.

If the mixture is too thick, whisk in warm water 1 tablespoon at a time (up to 2 tbs) until it reaches a dipping consistency. Taste and adjust: more lime for acidity, more sugar for sweetness, more chili for heat, or more soy for saltiness.

Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with 2 tsp crushed roasted peanuts for texture.

Garnish & Serve

Arrange 4 skewers on a platter with cucumber slices, red onion slices and lime wedges. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the skewers and serve the spicy peanut dip alongside.

To eat, squeeze lime over skewers as desired and dip each bite into the peanut sauce. Leftover sauce keeps covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.