This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich brings bold flavors with juicy steak, fresh veggies, and a tasty sauce, all stacked between soft bread. It’s like a flavor party in every bite!
Honestly, who can resist a sandwich that’s so fun to eat? I love adding extra kimchi for a little zing. It’s super quick to whip up, perfect for busy days or a tasty lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Ribeye or sirloin are great choices due to their tenderness. If you want a leaner option, try flank steak or even chicken for a lighter take! Always slice against the grain for tender bites.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding sodium, low-sodium soy sauce works well. Coconut aminos is a good gluten-free alternative that still gives a nice umami taste.
Gochujang: This spicy paste contributes a unique flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of sriracha and miso paste can mimic some of the taste, though it won’t be exactly the same.
Bell Peppers & Onions: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! Mushrooms and zucchini also work well here. Don’t shy away from adding more veggies for extra crunch and nutrition!
What’s the Key to a Perfectly Cooked Steak in Your Sandwich?
Cooking steak to the right doneness is crucial for a delicious sandwich. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your pan to medium-high heat to ensure that the steak sears well.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the beef in batches if necessary. This keeps the heat consistent.
- Let it cook without moving it for 3-4 minutes for a good sear, then flip and finish cooking. Aim for medium-rare to medium for tenderness.
- Rest the cooked beef for a minute before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy bite!
Following these tips will help you achieve a scrumptious sandwich every time! Enjoy every savory bite.
Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef steak (ribeye or sirloin works well)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions (scallions), chopped
- 4 slices of good-quality sandwich bread (such as sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Butter for toasting bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and marinate the beef, plus another 15-20 minutes to cook and assemble everything. So, in total, plan for about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This will be the flavorful marinade for your steak.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and toss well to coat all the pieces. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Make the Spicy Mayo:
While the beef is marinating, mix the mayonnaise and gochujang together in a small bowl. Stir until well combined, then set aside.
4. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
5. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the red onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly softened but still have a nice crunch. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Heat a clean pan over medium heat. On the unbuttered side of the bread, spread a generous layer of the spicy mayo. Then, layer the cooked beef, sautéed veggies, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and shredded cheese on top.
7. Cook the Sandwich:
Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out. Place the sandwich in the heated pan and cook until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the pan and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like. Cut it in half and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Korean-inspired steak sandwich!
This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Enjoy every spicy and savory bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are great for this recipe, you can also use flank steak, skirt steak, or even chicken for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly for the best results!
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the beef with tofu, tempeh, or a hearty vegetable like eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Marinating them in the same sauce will give you that delicious flavor, and you can still use the spicy mayo for a tasty kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked beef and veggies will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet before assembling your sandwich again!
What Can I Serve on the Side?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries, a simple salad, or kimchi for an extra touch of Korean flavors. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
