Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These teriyaki steak bites are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful appetizer for your next gathering. Packed with savory teriyaki goodness and tender, juicy steak, this recipe is a winner for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Steak:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This homemade teriyaki sauce is the secret to incredible flavor!
- Add the cubed steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your steak bites will be.
Cook the Steak Bites:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You can use a non-stick pan for easy cleanup.
- Remove the steak from the marinade (reserve the marinade), and add it to the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Cook the steak bites for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
- Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The cornstarch helps create a luscious, glossy sauce.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss gently to coat them evenly with the teriyaki sauce.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
- Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete and healthy meal. These teriyaki steak bites are also delicious served as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Steak Bites:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing, leading to less flavorful and potentially tough steak bites.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Variations:
- Chicken or Tofu: Substitute the steak with chicken breast cubes or firm tofu for a lighter protein option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Different Marinades: Experiment with other marinades like Korean BBQ or a simple garlic and herb marinade.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and quantities. Generally, this recipe provides a good source of protein and iron.
This easy teriyaki steak bites recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy!