This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich is a tasty treat! It features juicy, marinated steak topped with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce all in a soft bun. Yum!
I love how quick this sandwich is to whip up after a busy day. Plus, who wouldn’t want to eat steak in a sandwich? It feels a bit fancy and super fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin gives great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken or tofu can work as substitutes. Just adjust marinating time for chicken to about 30 minutes.
Soy Sauce: This is vital for flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a fantastic substitute. Low-sodium soy sauce can also reduce sodium intake.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and red onions add crunch and color. Feel free to swap them for kale, spinach, or any veggies you have on hand like mushrooms or zucchini.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds heat and depth. If you don’t have it, Sriracha or chili flakes can work too, but you might want to adjust based on how spicy you like it.
How Can I Achieve Tender and Flavorful Steak?
Marinating the steak is key for tender meat with great flavor. Here’s how to do it perfectly.
- Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Slice your steak thinly against the grain. This helps to keep it tender.
- Marinate it for at least 15 minutes. For the best flavor, let it sit in the fridge for up to 1 hour.
- After marinating, sear it in a hot skillet to create a nice caramelized crust. This is where the magic happens!
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your steak is deliciously tender and packed with flavor! Enjoy making your sandwiches!
Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red or yellow)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
- 4 slices sandwich bread or hoagie rolls
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or Sriracha
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Korean steak sandwich takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare. You can marinate the beef ahead of time if you’re looking to save even more time on busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and toss well to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, refrigerate it for up to 1 hour for even better flavor.
3. Sear the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (you might need to cook in batches) and sear until cooked and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, quickly sauté the sliced bell pepper and red onion until they’ve softened slightly but are still crisp, about 2 minutes.
5. Make the Spicy Mayo:
Mix the mayonnaise and gochujang (or Sriracha) in a small bowl to create a spicy spread that will add great flavor to your sandwich.
6. Toast the Bread:
Toast the sandwich bread slices in a pan or toaster until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread the spicy mayo on one slice of toasted bread. Layer on the sautéed veggies, followed by the cooked beef. Add sliced jalapeños, green onions, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
8. Finish the Sandwich:
Top with another slice of bread and gently press the sandwich together. For extra melty cheese, you can warm the assembled sandwich in the pan for 1-2 minutes.
9. Slice and Serve:
Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures!
This easy Korean steak sandwich is not only quick to make, but it also delivers on flavor with every bite. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but make sure to completely thaw it first. The best way to thaw steak is by leaving it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Remember to thinly slice the steak after it’s thawed for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to keep the bread from getting soggy, it’s best to store the beef and veggies separately from the bread. To reheat, try using a skillet to warm the beef and veggies while toasting the bread fresh.
Can I Make This Sandwich Spicier or Milder?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more gochujang or Sriracha, or include additional sliced jalapeños. For a milder flavor, use less of the spicy paste and ditch the jalapeños. Adjust the heat to suit your taste!
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
You can get creative with vegetables! Feel free to swap the bell peppers and red onions for others like mushrooms, zucchini, or even shredded carrots. Just remember to sauté them until they’re slightly tender while keeping some crunch!
