These Asian garlic steak skewers are packed with flavor! The tender steak marinated in a tasty garlic sauce and grilled to perfection makes for a fun and delicious meal.
They’re perfect for sharing at a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner. I love serving them with some rice and veggies; it feels like a mini feast on a stick! 🍢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is ideal for skewers due to its tenderness. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, consider using flank steak or even chicken breast for a leaner choice. Both will work, but may alter cooking times slightly.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add color and sweetness, but you can use zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes instead. Try different combinations for a fun flavor twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really brings out the flavor, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of powder for each clove.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you need a lower sodium option, you can find reduced-sodium soy sauces at most grocery stores.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey if you’re avoiding sugar or need a vegan option. They add a nice sweetness without changing the flavor too much.
How Do I Get the Steak Tender and Flavorful?
To ensure your steak is tender and bursting with flavor, marination is key. Allowing at least 30 minutes for marinating helps the meat soak in those delicious juices. For best results, marinate the steak for up to 2 hours, but don’t go past that or it might become mushy.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Add the steak cubes, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate. Remember, the longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets!
Also, when grilling, be sure to let the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps juices redistribute, making each bite more juicy and tender!
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ginger, grated (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes for marinating, plus 20 minutes for preparation and cooking. So, you should set aside around 50 minutes total to enjoy these tasty skewers, with the grilling happening right after the steak has marinated.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
Start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger (if you’re using it), black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Once it’s well combined, add the cubed steak to the bowl, making sure each piece is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will really pack in the flavor!
2. Prep the Vegetables:
While the steak is soaking up all those delicious flavors, take the time to chop your bell pepper and onion. Cut them into 1-inch pieces, similar to the size of the steak cubes. This will help everything to cook evenly on the grill.
3. Skewering:
Once the steak is done marinating, it’s time to put everything on skewers. Start by threading one piece of steak onto a skewer, then follow it with a piece of bell pepper and a piece of onion. Keep alternating between the steak and vegetables until all the ingredients are used up. Remember to leave a little space between each piece so they cook nicely!
4. Grilling:
Now, it’s time to fire up your grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the steak to reach your desired level of doneness, so aim for medium-rare to medium if you like it juicy.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once your skewers are cooked to perfection, take them off the grill. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for a nice finishing touch. Serve them warm, and feel free to pair with steamed rice or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful Asian Garlic Steak Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Steak?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sirloin steak with boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Marinate the chicken in the same mixture and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No problem! If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use vegetable or canola oil instead. While it won’t have the same nutty flavor, you can add a teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds for a similar essence in the dish.
How Can I Make These Skewers More Spicy?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes beyond the 1/4 tsp listed, or add a drizzle of sriracha or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. Just be sure to taste as you go!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
