Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

This Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe is a game-changer for lunch! With marinated ribeye steak, fresh veggies, and a zesty garlic mayo, this sandwich brings together an explosion of flavors that will impress your taste buds. Perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying meal at home, this recipe is not just about making a sandwich; it’s about creating an experience you won’t forget!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of marinated ribeye steak and gochujang creates an unforgettable taste that will leave you craving more.
• Quick Preparation: With only 80 minutes from start to finish, this sandwich is perfect for busy days or spontaneous meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
• Hearty and Filling: This recipe yields four generous servings, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends.
• Unique Twist on Classic Sandwiches: Elevate your lunch game with a Korean-inspired twist that stands out from traditional sandwiches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the right tools to make your Korean Steak Sandwich effortlessly delicious.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Ideal for cooking the steak evenly and achieving that perfect caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for marinating the steak and combining ingredients thoroughly.
• Chopping board: Provides a sturdy surface for slicing vegetables and bread safely.

Ingredients

This Korean Steak Sandwich with Jalapenos and Garlic Mayo is roll-your-eyes-in-your-head amazing! Marinated rib eye steak and a kick of chilli heat!

• 2 medium or one large ribeye steak (approximately 320g or 0.7lb in total)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice wine
• 2 garlic cloves (peeled and minced)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 grated sweet apple (no need to peel)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1/2 red bell pepper (de-seeded and sliced)
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper (de-seeded and sliced)
• 4 thick slices of bread from a large loaf (I used tiger bread (approx 65-75g per slice))
• 2 tbsp salted butter (melted)
• 1/4 tsp sesame seeds
• 75 g (2/3 cup) mature cheddar cheese (grated)
• 1/2 small red onion (peeled and sliced)
• 2 small jalapenos (sliced)
• 3 spring onions ((scallions) sliced into thin strips)
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 small garlic clove (peeled and minced)
• 2 tsp sweet chilli sauce

How to Make Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Place the steak in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up. This will help you slice it thinly.
2. After freezing, remove the steak and cut it into thin strips, about 2mm thick.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the steak slices with soy sauce, gochujang paste, minced ginger, light brown sugar, rice wine, minced garlic, black pepper, grated apple, and toasted sesame oil.
2. Mix everything well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you plan to marinate longer, store it in the fridge.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

1. Heat oil in a large frying pan over high heat.
2. Add the marinated steak slices. Fry them for about 4–5 minutes until cooked through and starting to caramelize. If too much liquid is released during frying, drain it off as needed.
3. Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a plate for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same pan used for cooking steak, add sliced red and yellow bell peppers.
2. Cook them for about 2–3 minutes until slightly softened before removing them from the pan.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Brush melted butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. On two slices of bread, place them butter-side-down on your chopping board or plate.
3. Layer cooked peppers, steak slices, sesame seeds, grated cheese, red onion slices, jalapenos, and spring onions on top.
4. Cover with remaining bread slices butter-side-up.

Step 6: Grill the Sandwiches

1. Place both sandwiches in a frying pan over low to medium heat.
2. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and cheese has melted.

Step 7: Add Garlic Mayo

1. Mix mayonnaise with minced garlic in a small bowl.
2. Open up your toasted sandwiches slightly and drizzle garlic mayo along with sweet chili sauce inside before closing them back up.

Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe as a delightful lunch option any time of year!

How to Serve Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

This Korean Steak Sandwich is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or a gathering with friends, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Asian Slaw: This tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots complements the flavors of the sandwich.

Add Some Crunch

• Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Pickles: A side of pickles can enhance the overall flavor profile with their tanginess.

Enjoy with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Garlic Mayo: Provide some extra garlic mayo on the side for dipping, enhancing each bite.
• Sweet Chilli Sauce: A small bowl of sweet chilli sauce can add a delightful kick.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for added freshness and color.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nutty flavor and an appealing look.

How to Perfect Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

Perfecting your Korean Steak Sandwich is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is mouthwatering.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the steak for up to 2 hours.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables add more vibrancy and taste compared to older produce.
• Control Heat: Cook the steak on medium-high heat for better caramelization without overcooking.
• Choose Quality Bread: Opt for crusty bread that can hold up against the juicy filling without getting soggy.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

A well-rounded meal includes perfect side dishes that complement your main course. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Korean Steak Sandwich.

1. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds a spicy tang that pairs beautifully with the sandwich.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory steak flavors.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods are a healthy snack that complements Asian cuisine well.
4. Rice Paper Rolls: These fresh rolls filled with veggies and shrimp offer a light alternative that balances the meal.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup introduces umami elements that work well with the sandwich’s flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites, adding sweetness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Korean Steak Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the steak to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough. Aim for a quick fry of 4-5 minutes until just caramelized.
• Using stale bread: Old bread can ruin your sandwich’s texture. Always use fresh, thick slices for optimal crunch and flavor.
• Ignoring the cheese: Forgetting cheese or using a low-quality option can dampen your sandwich’s richness. Opt for mature cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
• Skipping the garlic mayo: Neglecting the garlic mayo is a mistake! It adds a creamy kick that elevates the entire sandwich.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• item They will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

• item Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• item They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat sandwiches on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but note that this may make the bread soggy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe:

What type of steak is best for this recipe?

Ribeye steak is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness, which enhances the flavor of your sandwich.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute toppings like cucumbers, avocado, or different types of cheese based on your taste preferences.

How spicy is this Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe?

The spice level mainly comes from jalapenos and gochujang paste. Adjust these ingredients according to your heat tolerance.

Can I make this sandwich in advance?

Yes, you can prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Consider pairing it with kimchi, potato chips, or a refreshing salad to complement the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Final Thoughts

This Korean Steak Sandwich Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of flavors will delight your taste buds while offering room for customization based on what you love most. Don’t hesitate to try it out; you’ll find it perfect any time of year!