Chinese Grilled Gluten Skewers

🍢 Chinese Grilled Gluten Skewers 

 (Kǎo Miàn Jīn) is a classic street food from China, especially popular at night markets and barbecue stalls. It features skewered wheat gluten grilled over charcoal or an open flame, brushed with a savory-spicy sauce, and finished with fragrant spices. Its chewy texture and smoky flavor make it irresistible.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Skewers

• Fresh wheat gluten : 400 g (or store-bought gluten balls/rolls)

• Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes): 6–8

For the Marinade

• Light soy sauce: 3 tbsp

• Dark soy sauce: 1 tbsp

• Oyster sauce: 1 tbsp

• Chili paste or chili sauce: 1 tbsp (adjust to taste)

• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced

• Cumin powder: 1 tsp

• Chili powder (or paprika): 1 tsp

• Sugar: ½ tsp

• Sesame oil: 1 tsp

For Sprinkling

• Ground cumin: ½ tsp

• Chili flakes: ½ tsp

• White sesame seeds: 1 tsp

• Fresh cilantro (optional, chopped): for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Gluten

1. If using fresh wheat gluten, cut it into bite-sized chunks or roll into long strips.

2. If using pre-shaped gluten balls/rolls, leave them whole or slice slightly to help absorb flavor.

3. Thread the gluten pieces tightly onto soaked bamboo skewers.

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Step 2. Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauces, oyster sauce, chili paste, garlic, cumin powder, chili powder, sugar, and sesame oil.

2. Brush the marinade evenly over the skewered gluten, making sure all sides are coated.

3. Let them rest for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

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Step 3. Grill the Skewers

1. Preheat a charcoal grill, stovetop grill pan, or oven broiler.

2. Place the skewers over medium heat. Grill while continuously turning to prevent burning.

3. Brush with extra marinade during grilling to keep them juicy and flavorful.

4. Grill until golden brown, slightly charred, and fragrant (8–10 minutes).

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Step 4. Season and Serve

1. Once cooked, sprinkle skewers generously with ground cumin, chili flakes, and sesame seeds.

2. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

3. Serve hot as a snack or side dish — chewy, smoky, and packed with flavor.

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🌟 Tips

• For authentic street food flavor, charcoal grilling works best.

• Adjust chili and cumin levels to suit your spice tolerance.

• You can also prepare gluten skewers in advance and reheat quickly on the grill for gatherings.