These Asian Garlic Steak Skewers are packed with flavor and super easy to make! Juicy steak pieces are marinated in garlic and soy sauce, then grilled to perfection.
Perfect for a fun cookout, or just a tasty dinner at home! I love serving these with rice or a fresh salad. You won’t believe how quickly they disappear! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is perfect for skewers because it’s flavorful and tender when marinated. If you can’t find flank steak, you can substitute with sirloin or tenderloin for a similar taste.
Bell Peppers: I love the color and sweetness of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. If you prefer, you can use different veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, or simply stick to one color of pepper if that’s what you have.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can work, but I recommend using fresh if you can for better taste.
Sesame Oil: This oil provides a nutty flavor that’s hard to replace. If you don’t have it, you could try using olive oil, but it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Honey: Honey balances the marinade beautifully. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good alternatives if you’re looking for a different sweetener.
How Do You Properly Marinate the Steak?
Marinating is key to getting flavorful and tender steak. Here’s how to do it well:
- Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Whisking helps combine everything.
- Cut the steak into uniform cubes for even marinating.
- Seal the steak in a bag or bowl with the marinade, ensuring all pieces get coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Make sure to not skip this step—it’s where the flavors really develop! Enjoy the rich taste when cooked.
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
For the Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prep the ingredients and make the marinade. After that, let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour (or longer for more flavor). Cooking the skewers on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by mixing the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and cornstarch. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This flavorful marinade is crucial for delicious skewers!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Next, place your cubed flank steak in a large resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have the time, overnight is even better!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, prepare your skewers. Take the marinated steak out of the fridge and start threading the steak and the pieces of bell peppers and red onion onto the skewers, alternating them for color and flavor.
4. Season and Grill:
Before grilling, sprinkle the skewers with salt and pepper to add extra flavor. Now, place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The steak should reach your desired level of doneness, and the veggies should be tender and a little charred.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, take the skewers off the grill. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a beautiful touch. Serve your Asian Garlic Steak Skewers hot and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for its flavor and texture, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or even skirt steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content.
How Do I Soak Wooden Skewers?
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. You can even add a bit of flavor by soaking them in a mixture of water and soy sauce!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can definitely mix it up! Zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple would be delicious substitutes or additions. Just ensure the vegetables are cut to a similar size as the steak for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or quickly sauté them in a pan. This keeps the steak tender!
