This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich is packed with flavor and simple to make! It features tender steak marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for a kick.
Once the meat is cooked, pile it high on a crusty roll and add crunchy veggies. It’s the perfect mix of juicy and crispy! I usually enjoy it with a side of chips. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: These cuts are perfect for this sandwich since they’re tender and flavorful when thinly sliced. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, try using skirt steak or even chicken or tofu for a lighter twist.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory depth to the marinade. If you need a gluten-free option, choose tamari or coconut aminos. My favorite is low-sodium soy sauce to keep the saltiness in check.
Sesame Oil: This oil brings a rich, nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use any light vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. I always prefer to keep some on hand for its unique taste.
Mayo & Sriracha: For the sauce, mixing these two gives a creamy kick. If you want it milder, adjust the Sriracha or use a different sauce like garlic aioli. I love adding a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavor!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Steak?
Cooking the steak just right can be tricky but is essential for a great sandwich. The key is using high heat and a short cooking time.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the marinated steak. This helps to sear the meat for better flavor.
- Cook the steak in small batches if needed to avoid steaming it. You want to hear that sizzle!
- Look for a nice brown color on the outside while keeping it tender inside. This should take only about 3-5 minutes.
By following these tips, you’ll have juicy, flavorful steak in your sandwich every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make an Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 12 oz (340 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp grated ginger
For the Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Sandwich:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 4 slices sandwich bread (preferably rustic or sourdough), toasted
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (or another chili sauce)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-15 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and grated ginger to create a delicious marinade. Add the thinly sliced steak and toss until it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating longer enhances the flavor!
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak strips, spreading them out evenly. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until the steak is browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked steak from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are softened but still have a bit of crunch. If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add the sliced jalapeños during this step!
4. Make the Spicy Mayo:
While the veggies are cooking, mix the mayonnaise and Sriracha in a small bowl until well combined. This will give your sandwich a nice kick of flavor!
5. Assemble Your Sandwich:
Spread the spicy mayo on one side of each slice of toasted bread. Layer the sautéed peppers and onions on the bread, followed by the cooked steak strips. Sprinkle the green onions on top for that extra crunch!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Add a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the steak. If you’d like, you can place the assembled sandwich in a pan or oven briefly to melt the cheese just before serving. This makes it extra delicious!
7. Finish and Serve:
Garnish your sandwich with sesame seeds and close it up with the other slice of bread. Slice it in half for easy eating and enjoy immediately while it’s warm and delicious!
This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich is a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and crunchy textures. It’s sure to please your taste buds and be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin work great, you can also use skirt steak or even chicken for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require more or less time to cook.
How Can I Make the Sandwich Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more jalapeños or even a spicier chili sauce than Sriracha. For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some sliced fresh chili peppers directly onto the sandwich!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If mayonnaise isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. You could also try using a spicy aioli or even cream cheese mixed with your favorite hot sauce to maintain that creamy texture with a kick.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the sandwich components separately to keep them fresh. You can keep the steak and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before assembling your sandwich again!
