This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich is packed with juicy beef, spicy sauce, and crunchy veggies all on a soft bun. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick meal!
Trust me, the flavors collide in such a delicious way that you’ll want to make this again and again. I love adding an extra kick with jalapeños. Who’s with me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Ribeye or sirloin is ideal for tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak works well too. If you’re vegetarian, consider marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms as a hearty alternative!
Gochujang: This Korean red chili paste adds a delicious spice. If you can’t find it, you can use sriracha, but it may alter the flavor a bit. Or, mix some red pepper flakes with soy sauce for an easier substitute.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and crunch. Feel free to swap in green peppers or any veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or carrots, for different flavor profiles.
Bread: I love using thick bread like brioche for a soft inside and crispy crust, but any sandwich bread works! You can also opt for gluten-free bread if needed.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Beef?
Cooking beef just right is crucial for this sandwich. You want it juicy and tender, not tough. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef, which helps sear it quickly.
- Cook in batches if necessary; don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beef will steam instead of brown.
Keep an eye on the cooking time. About 4-5 minutes on medium-high heat will give you perfect results, stirring to ensure even cooking.
How to Toast Bread for the Best Texture?
Toasting adds a crunchy texture that really elevates your sandwich. Here’s my method:
- Spread butter generously on one side of each slice of bread before toasting.
- Use a medium heat to toast slowly; this helps get a golden-brown crust without burning.
- For extra flavor, you could add garlic powder or herbs to the butter!
Feel free to adjust cooking times based on your stove, and remember to enjoy the delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak and Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for extra heat)
- 2 green onions, chopped
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of thick sandwich bread or brioche buns
- 4 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Butter for toasting bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 20 minutes marinating the beef and cooking the filling, followed by 10 minutes for assembling and toasting your sandwich. Easy and quick for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, and black pepper until well combined. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to infuse all those yummy flavors!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through. Don’t overcook the beef; we want it tender!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the beef is cooking, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté them until they are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the mixture from the pan and set aside for later.
4. Prepare the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Sriracha sauce to create a spicy condiment that will bring the sandwich to life!
5. Toast the Bread:
Butter one side of each slice of bread. In a clean skillet or griddle, toast the buttered bread slices over medium heat until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread the spicy mayo generously on the untoasted sides of the crispy bread. On the bottom slice, layer the cooked beef and pepper mixture. Add sliced red onion, jalapeño slices (if you’re feeling spicy), chopped green onions, and a slice of cheese on top.
7. Final Touch:
Close the sandwich with the top slice of bread, giving it a gentle press to hold everything together. For a nice finish, you can heat it in the skillet for another minute to melt the cheese if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the sandwich in half if you like, and sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds on top or inside for some extra flavor and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and spicy Easy Korean Steak Sandwich!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are great options for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or even skirt steak. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can sauté the veggies beforehand and reheat them when ready to assemble the sandwiches for the best flavor and texture.
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can use sriracha or a mix of red pepper flakes with soy sauce for heat. However, the flavor will differ slightly, so keep that in mind!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, remove the veggies and beef and warm them separately, then reassemble on fresh bread to enjoy the best taste!
