Kid-Friendly Beef Bites (Day 10)
A backyard feast inspired by lakeside adventure.
Day 10 of Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip was a big one. We spent the day learning, remembering, and talking about the hard parts of the Civil Rights Movement. After leaving Montgomery and heading northeast, our hearts were heavy, but we were ready for something warm and comforting.
When we pulled into the driveway, there was granddaddy, standing by the rotisserie with a big ol’ beef tenderloin turning slow. That smell hit us before we even got out of the truck—rich, savory, and downright mouthwatering. We all just stood there for a minute, watching the meat spin, listening to that quiet sizzle.
When it was ready, granddaddy sliced it up into juicy, bite-sized pieces. We turned them into Beef Bites—some on little skewers, some tucked in soft slider buns. The boys were all about making their own, threading beef and veggies like they were building their own masterpieces.
The best thing about Beef Bites? You can make ’em anywhere. Over a campfire, on the grill, or right in the oven. They go great with fruit, roasted veggies, or even a scoop of potato salad if that’s what you’ve got. And if you’ve got kids hanging around, give ’em the job of making the skewers—it’s safe enough and they love being part of it.
That night, we piled our plates high and sat together, letting the warmth of supper ease the weight of the day. Sometimes, the best thing after a long, heavy stretch is a simple meal with the people you love.
Faith Reflection
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
Even the simple act of cooking dinner can be a moment of worship. Slowing down to share a meal with your family—outside, at the lake, or around the table—is a reminder of how deeply God delights in connection.
Granddaddy’s Sunday Beef (Kids Style)
Inspired by Day 10 of Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip—these mini skewers or oven sliders are a fun, flexible way to fuel up after a lake day. Whether grilled on the deck or seared in a skillet, they’re easy for kids to help with and perfect for little hands.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into small cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika or Italian herbs
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water) or small supper rolls for sliders
Instructions
Instructions (Skewers):
- Toss beef cubes with oil and seasoning.
- Thread 3–4 pieces on each skewer.
- Grill or bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.
Instructions (Sliders):
- Season and sear beef in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Serve on small Hawaiian rolls with cheese, ketchup, or a dollop of mayo.
Notes
Tip: Serve with fruit skewers, roasted carrots, or sweet potato fries for a well-rounded kid-friendly meal.
This easy meal is tied to Day 10 of Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip. After a full day exploring Montgomery’s Civil Rights history, the family arrived to Granddaddy’s house on Lake Martin for some much-needed rest. Supper was simple—build-your-own beef bites on the deck, with the boys helping skewer or stack their creations. As the sun dipped low over the water, the quiet evening gave space to reflect, recharge, and just be together.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 419Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 121mgSodium: 431mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 39g
These recipes are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to replace professional dietary advice. Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Please adjust recipes for allergies or dietary needs as needed for your family.
