The Perfect Party Dish: Asian Style Steak Skewers
- briancsetaro
- Oct 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Hosting a party is an art, and one of the most crucial elements is the food. For years, I've been preparing a dish that's become a staple at my gatherings: Asian Style Steak Skewers. These skewers are a crowd favorite, consistently requested by friends and family.
The secret to their popularity lies in the flavorful marinade and the cooking technique, which imparts a unique and irresistible taste. Let's dive into the recipe and the key to perfecting these delicious skewers.
The Recipe: Asian Style Steak Skewers
Ingredients:
2 lbs flank steak
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup sesame oil
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
3-4 scallions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, scallions, sesame seeds, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). This marinade is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors that will infuse the steak with a delicious Asian-inspired taste.
2. Marinate the Steak: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This cut allows the steak to cook quickly and stay tender. Place the steak strips in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. The longer the meat marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
3. Prepare the Grill: For the best results, cook the skewers on a charcoal grill with a couple of pieces of mesquite wood blocks. This combination imparts a smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Light the charcoal and allow it to heat until covered with a light layer of ash. Add the mesquite wood blocks to the grill for an extra smoky flavor.
4. Skewer the Steak: Thread the marinated steak strips onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. The meat should have a nice char on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist. Serve the skewers hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
The Secret to Perfection: Mesquite and Charcoal
The key to making these steak skewers exceptional lies in the cooking technique. Using a charcoal grill with mesquite wood blocks adds a distinctive smoky flavor that can't be replicated with other methods. The mesquite wood enhances the meat's natural flavors, creating a deliciously aromatic and savory experience. It's this unique touch that keeps guests coming back for more and makes these skewers a highlight at every party.
Over the years, these Asian Style Steak Skewers have become a signature dish at my gatherings. They're easy to prepare, cook quickly, and are always a hit. Whether you're hosting a small get-together or a large celebration, these skewers are a fantastic option that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds. So fire up the grill, marinate that steak, and get ready to enjoy a dish that's sure to become a favorite at your parties too!