If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting South Dakota Chislic, you’re in for a treat!
This regional specialty features tender, marinated cubes of meat—typically lamb, beef, or venison—that are grilled or deep-fried to perfection.
The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the juicy, flavorful interior, making each bite utterly satisfying.
Served with a side of dipping sauce, Chislic is a must-try dish for any meat lover.
Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this dish captures the essence of South Dakota’s culinary heritage, combining simple ingredients with bold, mouthwatering flavors.
Preparation time of the recipe
- Preparation: 10 minutes (plus 2-4 hours for marinating)
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Serves: 4-6 people
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
For the Chislic:
- 1.5 lbs meat cubes (lamb, beef, or venison, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- Ranch dressing (classic choice)
- BBQ sauce
- Spicy mustard
- Hot sauce
- Horseradish sauce (for a kick)
Alternative Ingredients:
- Vegan Version: Use marinated tofu or seitan instead of meat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that soy sauce and any other condiments are gluten-free.
- Lower-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of salt in the marinade.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
Creating South Dakota Chislic is straightforward, but the results are extraordinary. Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add the meat cubes to the marinade, tossing to ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, if deep-frying, heat a large pot of oil to 350°F (175°C).
- If grilling, thread the marinated meat cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.
- If deep-frying, carefully drop the meat cubes into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 2-4 minutes, or until the cubes are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve the Chislic hot, with your choice of dipping sauces on the side. Sprinkle with a little extra salt or some chopped fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy with friends and family as an appetizer or main dish, accompanied by a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade.
Nutritional Benefits
South Dakota Chislic offers more than just great taste; it’s also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health.
- High Protein: The meat provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Iron: Red meats like lamb, beef, and venison are high in iron, which is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels.
- Zinc: Meat is an excellent source of zinc, supporting immune function and wound healing.
- B Vitamins: These meats are rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, which is important for brain function and the production of red blood cells.
- Healthy Fats: Using olive oil in the marinade adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
There are plenty of ways to customize your Chislic experience to suit your tastes.
- Herb Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
- Cheese: Serve with a side of shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetable Skewers: Grill some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini alongside the meat for a complete meal.
- Seasoned Fries: Serve with a side of seasoned fries or potato wedges for a more substantial dish.
- Pita Bread: Wrap the Chislic in pita bread with some lettuce and tomatoes for a delicious sandwich.
- Spicy Rub: Before marinating, rub the meat with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
Questions and Answers
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, Chislic can be made with various meats including pork, chicken, or even game meats like elk or bison.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chislic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Can I bake the Chislic instead of grilling or frying?
Yes, you can bake the marinated meat cubes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Is Chislic traditionally served with any sides?
Chislic is often enjoyed with saltine crackers, bread, or fries. You can also pair it with a fresh salad.
How do I make the Chislic spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
What’s the best way to serve Chislic at a party?
Serve the Chislic on skewers with a variety of dipping sauces. Arrange them on a platter for easy sharing.
Can I marinate the meat overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight will intensify the flavor, but make sure not to exceed 24 hours as the meat could become too soft.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the meat in the oven for a similar effect.
Can I make Chislic with frozen meat?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the meat completely before marinating to ensure even cooking and absorption of flavors.
What dipping sauces pair well with Chislic?
Ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, spicy mustard, and hot sauce are all popular choices. You can also create your own dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha or horseradish.
Encourage Readers to Share
If you decide to make this classic South Dakota Chislic, I’d love to see how it turns out! Share your photos and tag me on social media. Let’s spread the word about this delicious dish and bring a taste of South Dakota to kitchens everywhere!
