Name: Easy Korean Steak Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1½ lb sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin), cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tbsp avocado oil (or your favorite cooking oil, for stovetop method); ½ cup coconut aminos; 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil (or olive oil for AIP); 4 garlic cloves, peeled; 1 pitted medjool date (OR 2 tsp maple syrup for non-Whole30); 1 inch fresh ginger; Optional: 2 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes) – omit for AIP; Sesame seeds (omit for AIP); Chopped green onions

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If you’re searching for a flavorful, quick, and utterly satisfying dish to add to your dinner rotation, look no further than this Easy Korean Steak Bites Recipe. Tender, juicy steak cubes get a beautiful kiss of sweet-savory marinade infused with garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, these steak bites deliver a punch of authentic Korean-inspired flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view of small red meat cubes inside a clear plastic bag, placed on a white marbled surface. A rich, brown sauce is being poured over the meat from above, covering some of the cubes. The meat has a fresh, raw look with visible white fat bits, and the sauce is smooth and thick. The scene is focused on the action of pouring, with the sauce stream slightly blurred, highlighting motion. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for staples that you may already have on hand, each bringing something special to the table—whether it’s the rich umami from coconut aminos or the subtle nutty aroma from toasted sesame oil. Every ingredient works in harmony to create depth, balance, and vibrant color in these steak bites.

1½ lb sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin): Choose a cut you love for tenderness and flavor.
1 tbsp avocado oil (or your favorite cooking oil, for stovetop method): High smoke point oils help achieve a perfect sear.
1/2 cup coconut aminos: A naturally sweet, soy-free marinade base adding salty-sweet complexity.
2 tbsp toasted sesame oil (or olive oil for AIP): Imparts a toasty, nutty finish that’s signature to Korean cuisine.
4 garlic cloves (peeled): Fresh garlic gives that irresistible pungency and flavor depth.
1 pitted medjool date (OR 2 tsp maple syrup for non-Whole30): Natural sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes.
1 inch fresh ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle zing to awaken the palate.
Optional: 2 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes – omit for AIP): For those who love a little heat with their steak.
For garnish: Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (omit sesame seeds for AIP): Provides crunch, color, and fresh brightness for the finishing touch.

How to Make Easy Korean Steak Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by cutting your sirloin (or preferred cut) into 1-inch cubes. This bite-sized chopping makes every piece perfectly suited for quick cooking and savoring each juicy morsel. Place the steak cubes in a resealable bag—this keeps everything contained and makes the marinating a breeze.

Step 2: Whip Up the Marinade

Pop the coconut aminos, toasted sesame oil, garlic cloves, medjool date, fresh ginger, and optional gochugaru into a blender. Blend everything until smooth, creating a luscious, balanced marinade that will coat your steak pieces beautifully.

Step 3: Marinate the Steak

Pour the marinade over the steak cubes in the bag, seal it tightly, and massage gently to ensure every piece is coated. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours—longer if you have the time—to soak up all that incredible flavor. Trust me, the wait is worth it.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Remove your marinated steak bites from the fridge, drain off excess marinade, and discard it. Then choose your cooking method.

Stovetop Method: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling hot. Add the steak pieces in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes without moving them. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Place the steak bites in a single layer (cook in batches if needed) and air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your steak bites come off the heat, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh burst of texture and flavor. These little toppings elevate the dish into something truly special.

How to Serve Easy Korean Steak Bites Recipe

The image shows a close-up of many small pieces of cooked beef in a black pan. The beef pieces are brown with a bit of a shiny surface showing they are juicy and cooked well. On top of the beef pieces, there are small light brown sesame seeds and green slices of spring onions scattered around. A golden fork is holding one piece of beef in the center, with the tines slightly inserted into it. The background shows the black pan with a little oil reflecting light, making the dish look fresh and tasty. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions is the classic finish. Not only do these add a lovely crunch and pop of color, but they also deepen the authentic Korean flavor profile. For a vibrant twist, try adding thinly sliced red chilies or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

Side Dishes

These steak bites pair beautifully with simple steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful juices. For a veggie boost, serve alongside sautéed bok choy, kimchi, or a crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar. These sides keep the meal balanced and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these steak bites into a fun appetizer by skewering them on wooden sticks for a party platter. You could also pile them over a bed of noodles tossed in sesame oil and scallions for an indulgent Korean noodle bowl. No matter how you serve them, they’re sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover steak bites in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the steak cool before storing to maintain its juicy texture. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers are just as delightful.

Freezing

If you want to save these steak bites for later, flash freeze the pieces on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the air fryer to restore their crisp exterior and tender inside. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that delicious seared texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Sirloin is great for tenderness and cost-effectiveness, but ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin also work beautifully and bring their own rich flavors and textures to the dish.

Is there a substitute for coconut aminos?

You can swap coconut aminos with soy sauce or tamari if you’re not avoiding soy; just keep in mind this will change the flavor profile slightly. Coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter and less salty touch.

How long should I marinate the steak?

At least 2 hours is ideal, but if you have the time, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors wonderfully. Just be careful not to go too long to avoid any textural changes to the meat.

Can I make this recipe whole30 or AIP compliant?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of sesame oil and omit the gochugaru and sesame seeds for AIP-compliance. Also, stick with the medjool date as a natural sweetener to keep it Whole30-friendly.

What side dishes complement this recipe best?

Traditional Korean sides like kimchi, pickled vegetables, or steamed rice work perfectly. For lower carb options, steamed or stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach elevate the meal while keeping things light.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Easy Korean Steak Bites Recipe enough. It’s simple, fast, and bursting with delicious Korean flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, these bites are guaranteed to become a favorite go-to. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a little Korean magic on your stovetop or air fryer tonight!