These tasty Asian Garlic Steak Skewers are packed with flavor and make a perfect meal or snack. The juicy steak is marinated in a savory sauce that includes garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness!
Grilling these on skewers is a fun way to enjoy dinner. Plus, the aroma of garlic filling the air is simply irresistible! I love serving them with fresh veggies for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are both great picks for this skewers recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try tenderloin. For a non-beef alternative, chicken or tofu can work well too.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. If they’re not available, you can use green peppers or even zucchini slices for a unique twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings so much flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best for that punch of taste.
Sesame Oil: This is key for that nutty flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use olive oil with a sprinkle of sesame seeds as a last-minute substitute.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for heat, but a sprinkle can really amplify the flavors. If you prefer less spice, feel free to leave it out or switch to a mild pepper.
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Perfectly Cooked on the Skewers?
Getting the beef cooked just right can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- Cut your beef into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer is better, but no more than 4 hours to avoid mushy texture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps sear the beef and lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness! Aim for 135°F for that perfect medium-rare.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain the juices for even more tasty bites!
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound beef steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the beef. If you have time, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours for more flavor. Cooking the skewers on the grill will take around 10-12 minutes. In total, plan for at least an hour before you can enjoy your delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In the bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This will be the tasty marinade for your steak.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to your marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then pop it in the fridge. Let the beef soak up those delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for up to 4 hours!
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the beef is marinating, it’s time to prepare the vegetables. Cut the bell peppers and red onion into chunks, similar in size to the beef cubes. Set these aside as you wait for the beef to marinate.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Next, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot for cooking the skewers.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the beef is marinated, it’s time to thread everything onto the skewers. Take a skewer and alternate threading the steak cubes with chunks of bell peppers and red onion. This will make for colorful and tasty skewers!
6. Season and Grill:
Remove the skewers from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Season the skewers well with salt and pepper. Place them on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the steak reaches an internal temperature of 135°F for medium rare.
7. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the skewers and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Just before serving, sprinkle the skewers with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These tasty Asian Garlic Steak Skewers are ready to enjoy! Serve them with extra soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice on the side. Dig in and savor the flavors!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak, tenderloin, or even chuck steak. Just remember that different cuts may have varying cooking times, so keep an eye on the internal temperature for your desired doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free and lower-sodium alternative. Adjust the amount to taste, as these substitutes can vary in saltiness and flavor profile.
How Long Can I Marinate the Beef?
You can marinate the beef for a minimum of 30 minutes up to 4 hours for optimal flavor. If you plan to marinate longer than 4 hours, consider using a salt-free marinade or reducing the amount of soy sauce to prevent the meat from becoming too salty or mushy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold in a salad or wrap!