These Asian Garlic Steak Skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Tender pieces of steak are marinated in a tasty garlic sauce, then grilled to perfection on skewers.
They’re super fun to eat and great for sharing with friends. I love throwing these on the grill during backyard barbecues. Just watch them disappear! 😄
Making these skewers is a breeze—just marinate the steak and grill. They’re perfect for a quick dinner, and the garlic smell will have everyone wanting seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or flank steak works perfectly for skewers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken breast or tofu cubes as a vegetarian substitute. They will soak up the marinade flavors nicely.
Bell Pepper: Any color bell pepper adds a sweet crunch. Feel free to mix colors or use zucchini or mushrooms if bell peppers aren’t available. They’ll also bring their own unique flavor to the skewers.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead, but it won’t have the same punch. I always recommend using fresh for the best taste.
Soy Sauce: If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. If you want a different flavor, coconut aminos can also work well.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a lovely nutty flavor. You can substitute with olive oil if needed, but you might miss out on that distinct taste. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil is best if you have it.
How Do I Get the Steak Just Right on the Grill?
Perfectly grilled steak skewers are all about timing and technique. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Make sure your grill is preheated well. Medium-high heat is ideal. This helps to sear the steak quickly.
- Thread your marinated steak and veggies tightly but not too crowded, allowing heat to circulate.
- Cook the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning every couple of minutes. This ensures even cooking and a nice grill mark.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Enjoy the wonderful aroma and look out for that perfect char—it makes all the difference!
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skewers:
- 1 ½ pounds beef steak (sirloin or flank steak), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
For The Marinade:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped
Additional Items:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes to marinate the steak. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, so total time will be around 50 minutes, plus any additional marinating time if you want more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the beef steak cubes to this flavorful marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can let it marinate for up to 2 hours for even more delicious flavor!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. While they’re soaking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the steak is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Now, it’s time to thread the ingredients onto the skewers. Start by placing a piece of marinated steak on the skewer, then follow it with a piece of bell pepper and a chunk of red onion. Keep alternating until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at each end for easy handling.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them every couple of minutes. You want the steak to be cooked to your liking and the vegetables to be tender and slightly charred. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
5. Serve:
Once the skewers are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve your delicious Asian Garlic Steak Skewers immediately with your choice of rice or salad. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary: chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, shrimp typically takes about 5-7 minutes, and tofu just needs to be heated through.
How Can I Make These Skewers Spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or minced jalapeños to the marinade. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side, such as sriracha or a spicy chili oil, to really kick it up a notch!
What Can I Use Instead of Sesame Oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with other oils like canola or olive oil. To add a hint of the sesame flavor, you can mix in a little toasted sesame seeds or a dash of sesame paste (tahini) into the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a hot skillet or grill for a few minutes until warmed through to maintain the texture and flavor. Enjoy them cold in a salad, or heat them up for a quick meal!
