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Sticky Steak Bites: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect, Flavorful Bites

Quick and easy sticky steak bites, perfectly seared and coated in a sweet and savory Asian-inspired sauce. A delicious appetizer or main course!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Sirloin Steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1/4 cup Honey
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon Water
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Sesame Seeds
  • Chopped Green Onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the Steak: In a large bowl, combine the steak cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
  3. Marinate (Optional): For even more flavor, marinate the seasoned steak in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours.
  4. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  5. Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
  6. Cook the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan with the other sauce ingredients. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now.
  7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  8. Keep Warm: Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and keep it warm until the steak bites are cooked.
  9. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  10. Sear the Steak: Add the seasoned steak cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
  11. Remove from Pan: Once the steak bites are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
  12. Combine Steak and Sauce: Add the cooked steak bites to the saucepan with the sticky sauce. Toss gently to coat the steak evenly with the sauce.
  13. Simmer Briefly: Return the saucepan to low heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to further adhere to the steak bites.
  14. Serve Immediately: Serve the sticky steak bites immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

  • Sirloin steak is a great choice for steak bites because it’s relatively lean and cooks quickly. However, you can also use other cuts of steak, such as ribeye or New York strip, if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure that each piece of steak has enough room to brown.
  • High heat is essential for achieving a good sear on the steak. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak.
  • Overcooked steak bites can be tough and dry. Cook the steak to your desired level of doneness, but be careful not to overcook it.
  • The sticky sauce is very versatile, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
  • Sticky steak bites are best served immediately, while they’re still hot and the sauce is sticky.
  • Serving Suggestions: Over rice, with noodles, as an appetizer, or with vegetables.
  • Storage Instructions: Refrigerate leftover steak bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, being careful not to overcook.