These Asian Garlic Steak Skewers are packed with flavor! Juicy steak pieces are marinated in a tasty mix of garlic, soy sauce, and spices, then grilled to perfection on skewers.
I love how quick and easy they are to make. Perfect for grilling parties or a simple weeknight meal! Just add some veggies and you’re all set for a delicious dinner. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is perfect for skewering due to its flavor and tenderness when marinated. If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak or sirloin can work well too. Just be sure to cut it against the grain for best tenderness!
Bell Peppers: These add color and crunch to the skewers. Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes if you prefer. If you want a bit of spice, you can swap for jalapeños instead!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder; just remember it’s less potent, so adjust accordingly!
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you need less sodium, you can choose low-sodium soy sauce.
Sesame Oil: It brings a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, canola or avocado oil can serve as substitutes, but you’ll miss out on that distinct taste. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end can help compensate!
How Do I Ensure My Steak Stays Tender on the Grill?
To keep your steak tender and flavorful, marinating is essential! Make sure to let the steak sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. The right balance of soy sauce, honey, and vinegar helps break down the fibers in the meat.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients well to ensure even flavor throughout.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning, but metal skewers eliminate this step.
- Monitor the grill heat and avoid overcooking; 8-10 minutes gives great results, and the steak should be slightly pink in the center if you prefer medium.
- Rest the skewers for a few minutes after grilling to enhance tenderness before serving.
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the steak. If you let it marinate overnight, it’ll be even tastier! You’ll also need about 10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy these delicious skewers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This mixture will be your yummy marinade!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Now, add the cubed flank steak to the marinade. Make sure all the pieces are coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or even overnight for extra flavor!)
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you have metal skewers, you can use them right away!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated steak out of the fridge. Begin threading the steak cubes onto the skewers, adding in pieces of the bell peppers and onion between the steak. Alternate between the different colors for a beautiful presentation!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, place the skewers on the grates. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the steak to be cooked to your liking and the veggies to be tender, but not mushy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
When they’re done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a lovely finish. Serve them up hot and enjoy these tasty Asian garlic steak skewers with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Steak for Skewers?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for skewers, you can also use cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even tenderloin. Just ensure that the cut is tender and not too fatty for the best grilling experience.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No problem! You can substitute sesame oil with olive oil or vegetable oil. While it won’t have the same nutty flavor, it’ll still work well with the marinade. If you want to mimic the taste, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to the marinade!
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to broil and arrange the skewers on a baking sheet. Broil for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
How Long Can I Marinate the Steak?
You can marinate the steak for anywhere from 1 hour to overnight. If you marinate for longer than 24 hours, the meat may start to break down too much, affecting its texture. Aim for a sweet spot around 4-6 hours for maximum flavor without compromising the steak’s integrity.
