Anticuchos I

Ingredients

 * 3 aji or jalapeno chiles, chopped, stems and seeds removed
 * 3 tbsp dried crushed red chiles (piquin chiles) seeds included
 * 1 tbsp achiote (red seeds of annatto tree, available in Latin markets, or in some spice areas of grocers)
 * 1½ tsp cumin seeds
 * 2 tbsp olive oil
 * 4 cloves garlic, chopped
 * ¾ cup red wine vinegar
 * ½ tsp salt
 * fresh ground black pepper
 * 4 lb beef heart, cut into 1" cubes (substitute sirloin or chicken breast)

Directions

 * 1) Simmer the annatto and cumin seeds in the oil for 5 minutes.
 * 2) Strain the oil and discard the seeds.
 * 3) Place all the ingredients for the marinade in a blender and purée until smooth.
 * 4) Marinate the meat in the mixture overnight, refrigerated.
 * 5) Thread meat onto skewers and grill over charcoal.