If you love bold flavors and tender, juicy steak, you are going to absolutely adore this Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe. It combines the perfect balance of savory soy, sweet honey, and fragrant garlic in a marinade that transforms simple steak cubes into an irresistible dish bursting with Asian-inspired goodness. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend get-together, these skewers deliver mouthwatering taste with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite in your cooking rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe plays a crucial role in developing flavor, texture, and mouthfeel. From the umami-rich soy sauce to the bright freshness of ginger and the subtle nuttiness of sesame oil, these elements come together simply but effectively to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank or sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut and slice against the grain for maximum juiciness.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and savory saltiness, the backbone of the marinade.
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce: Brings a slightly sweet, oceanic richness that elevates the flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Balances the savory notes with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a toasty, nutty aroma that’s unmistakably Asian.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Introduces a touch of acidity to brighten and balance the marinade.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of fragrant garlic flavor that defines the recipe.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds subtle warmth and zest that complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the leftover marinade into a luscious glaze.
- 1 tablespoon water: Used to make the cornstarch slurry for thickening the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil: Essential for oiling your grill or pan to prevent sticking and promote char.
- Sliced green onions: A fresh, colorful garnish that adds a mild oniony crunch.
- Sesame seeds: Sprinkle on top for subtle crunch and nutty flavor finishing touch.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Soak wooden skewers beforehand to stop them from burning on the grill.
How to Make Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Marinade
If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes is essential to keep them from burning during grilling. Meanwhile, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl. This simple marinade is where all the magic happens—each ingredient layering flavors that will soak deep into the steak cubes.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Add your steak cubes to the marinade and toss them around until they are fully coated. Once combined, cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 4 hours. This waiting time is where the steak develops tenderness and absorbs those beautiful Asian garlic flavors.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Grilling
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Thread the marinated steak cubes onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking and that perfect caramelized crust on every side.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Glaze
Mix cornstarch and water together to create a slurry, then stir it into the remaining marinade. Gently simmer the sauce in a small saucepan for 2 to 3 minutes, until it thickens into a luscious glaze. This glaze is the secret finishing touch that amplifies the garlic-packed flavor while adding a sticky, appetizing sheen.
Step 5: Grill the Steak Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until your steak reaches the desired doneness. During the final minute, generously brush the thickened garlic glaze over each skewer to create layers of delicious flavor and shine. Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the heat and get ready to garnish.
How to Serve Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sliced green onions and sesame seeds are the classic garnishes that complement the skewers. They add bright color, a touch of freshness, and a satisfying crunch that balances the rich garlic sauce. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle these generously just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair these savory skewers with steamed jasmine rice or a vibrant Asian-style slaw for a complete and well-rounded meal. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus also make excellent sides, adding texture and freshness that punctuate the smoky steak’s flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow guests? Serve these skewers on a wooden platter lined with banana leaves or large lettuce leaves for a tropical touch. You could also offer a small bowl of extra garlic glaze as a dipping sauce on the side, inviting everyone to adjust the flavor intensity to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Asian Garlic Steak Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the meat tender, avoid reheating more than once and store it separately from any garnish to preserve freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save some skewers for a future meal, you can freeze them before grilling. Just thread the marinated steak onto skewers, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or briefly under a broiler to revive the char without overcooking the steak. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the meat and dull the glaze’s wonderful flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Flank or sirloin steak is recommended for tenderness and flavor, but you can also try ribeye or skirt steak. Just remember to slice against the grain to keep the meat tender.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak for 4 hours?
While 4 hours allows deeper flavor penetration and tenderization, even a 30-minute marinade will give you tasty results. The longer you can marinate within that window, the better.
Can I cook these skewers indoors?
Yes, if grilling is not an option, use a hot cast iron skillet or your oven broiler. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and to develop that beautiful crust.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can substitute with hoisin sauce or a bit more soy sauce mixed with a touch of sugar, but oyster sauce adds a unique savory-sweet depth that’s hard to replicate exactly.
Can these skewers be served cold or at room temperature?
They are best enjoyed hot off the grill to appreciate the caramelized glaze and tender steak. However, they do hold up well at room temperature for a short time, making them great for parties and buffets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. It’s an easy, flavorful way to infuse everyday steak with vibrant Asian flavors that make every bite memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and sure to become a crowd-pleaser in your home. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite!
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Asian Garlic Steak Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus marinating
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Asian Garlic Steak Skewers offer a deliciously marinated and grilled beef option, infused with the savory flavors of soy, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. Perfectly tender flank or sirloin steak cubes are skewered and grilled to juicy perfection, then brushed with a thickened garlic sauce and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Ideal for a flavorful main course that’s simple to prepare and serves well with rice or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
Steak and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce Thickener
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Grilling and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (for grilling)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fully combined.
- Marinate Steak: Add steak cubes to the marinade and toss so all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 4 hours to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Thread Steak on Skewers: Thread the marinated steak pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
- Prepare Thickened Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir this into the remaining marinade. Transfer to a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until thickened (about 2 to 3 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until your preferred doneness is reached.
- Brush with Sauce: During the last minute of grilling, generously brush the thickened garlic sauce onto the skewers for extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the skewers from the grill, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve warm alongside rice or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, slice the steak against the grain before cubing.
- If a grill is not available, these skewers can be cooked under a broiler or in a cast iron skillet.
- Serve these skewers with steamed rice or grilled vegetables to complete the meal.
