Honey Garlic Steak Bites

• Beef cubes: use stew beef or any cut meant for slow cooking aim for nicely marbled pieces so the bites turn out tender and juicy the fresher the beef the better the flavor
• Sesame oil: gives nutty depth to the sear go for toasted sesame oil if you can find it for even richer aroma
• Fresh garlic cloves: finely minced this builds the base of the whole glaze freshly peeled garlic brings out a much sweeter punch
• Honey: delivers sweetness and helps the sauce turn sticky and glossy use good raw honey for best results
• Ketchup: adds tang and helps with the sticky texture you can swap for tomato paste in a pinch but ketchup is classic
• Soy sauce: provides salty umami notes choose low sodium for better control
• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning: adds bright herbal tones use fresh herbs if you have them for a lighter taste
• Filtered water: helps balance the richness and keeps everything from burning make sure the water is cold to help blend the cornstarch later
• Cornstarch: option for thickening mix with cold water for a smooth slurry always add slowly to avoid clumps
• Green onion scallions parsley or sesame seeds: bring freshness and a little crunch at the end only add just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Set a large skillet or your instant pot to medium high heat Add a splash of sesame oil and when it starts to shimmer add beef cubes in a single layer Do not crowd the pan Brown each side for two to three minutes until a deep crust forms This step locks in juices and builds flavor

Make the Sauce:

Whisk together minced garlic honey ketchup soy sauce and oregano in a bowl This creates the flavorful glaze that will coat the beef Pour this over the browned meat

Deglaze and Combine:

Add the water and quickly scrape up any browned bits from the pan base with a spatula This adds extra flavor and prevents sticking everything should look glossy and well mixed

Slow Cook or Pressure Cook:

For slow cooker pour everything inside and cook on low for four to six hours until the beef is meltingly tender For instant pot set it to manual high pressure and cook for twenty minutes letting the pressure release naturally for at least ten minutes For the dutch oven transfer to a 250 degree oven covered for two to three hours

Thicken the Glaze:

Once the beef is fork tender make a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water Stir it in slowly one tablespoon at a time Let the sauce simmer until it's shiny and coats the beef Add more slurry if needed

Finish and Serve:

Scatter chopped green onion sesame seeds or fresh parsley over the top for color and crunch Spoon beef and sauce over rice noodles or vegetables for a complete meal

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My favorite part is how the fresh garlic turns almost candied in the sauce The aroma fills the house and everyone always knows what’s for dinner when these hit the pan My youngest still calls it magic meat

Storage Tips

Honey garlic steak bites keep well in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce If you want to freeze let cool completely then transfer to a freezer safe bag or container and thaw in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap beef for boneless skinless chicken thighs or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist For the sauce tamari or coconut aminos work if you need gluten free Apple cider vinegar makes a nice tangy sub for ketchup in a pinch

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Serving Suggestions

These steak bites are at their best over steamed white rice or jasmine rice Try stuffing them in lettuce cups for a lighter meal or spooning them onto mashed potatoes with plenty of sauce Leftover glaze can be tossed with steamed broccoli or snap peas for an easy side

About the Recipe

Honey garlic steak is a classic takeout flavor made simple at home The combination of sweet and salty sauce with quick cooking beef bits is loved in many cuisines American kitchens often make it in slow cookers or instant pots for convenience but the original influence comes from East Asian home cooking especially where garlic and honey meet soy sauce for bold everyday meals

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, stew meat, sirloin, or chuck work well. Any cut that remains tender when slow cooked is suitable.

→ How do I thicken the glaze for the steak bites?

Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water, then stir it in while simmering until your desired thickness is reached.

→ Is there a substitute for soy sauce?

Coconut aminos or a low-sodium alternative can replace soy sauce for a different flavor, especially if you need a gluten-free option.

→ Are these steak bites spicy?

This dish focuses on sweet and savory flavors, but you can add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.

→ What sides pair well with honey garlic steak bites?

Serve them over steamed rice, noodles, or with roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious glaze.

→ Can I make this meal ahead of time?

Yes, these steak bites reheat well and can be made ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.