Asian Street Meat
Lucy
Discover how to make flavorful Asian street meat at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course main dish
Cuisine asian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
Ingredients
- To make this delicious Asian street meat you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Meat of your choice:
- 1 lb of chicken thighs beef, or pork – Choose a cut that’s tender and juicy. If you’re going for a vegetarian version, swap it out for tofu or seitan.
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup – The foundation of your marinade adding that classic salty, umami flavor. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon – This adds a nutty depth to the marinade giving it that signature Asian street food taste.
- Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon – A touch of acidity to balance out the rich flavors of the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Honey or brown sugar – 1 tablespoon – For a bit of sweetness that complements the savory elements.
- Fresh garlic – 2 cloves minced – Garlic brings that aromatic punch that ties everything together.
- Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon grated – The zing from ginger adds a layer of warmth and spice to the marinade.
- Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon – For garnish adding a nice crunch and an extra burst of flavor.
- Green onions – 2 stalks chopped – These provide a fresh, bright finish when sprinkled on top just before serving.
- Skewers if grilling – Wooden or metal, depending on your method. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey (or brown sugar). This combo forms the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the mixture. These ingredients bring that authentic street food aroma and flavor.
Taste the marinade, and if you’d like a bit more heat, feel free to add a splash of chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Marinate the Meat (or Tofu)
Slice your meat (or tofu) into bite-sized pieces or strips. If you’re using chicken or beef, cutting it into smaller pieces helps it cook more quickly and evenly.
Place the meat (or tofu) into a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over it and toss to coat evenly.
Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate it for 2 hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
Cook the Meat
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, making sure the pieces are evenly spaced. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the meat reaches your desired doneness.
Pan-searing: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of sesame oil to the pan and cook the meat in batches, turning occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Stir-frying: If you prefer stir-fry, heat a wok or large skillet with some oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated meat (or tofu) and stir-fry for 5-8 minutes, ensuring everything is cooked and slightly caramelized.
Check for Tenderness
The key to achieving that tender, juicy bite is to avoid overcooking. Keep an eye on your meat while cooking. If using chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Beef or pork can be cooked to your preferred level of doneness.
Serve
Once the meat is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the juices for a tender bite.
Garnish with green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 275
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Vitamin A: 8% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
- Calcium: 4% of daily value
- Iron: 15% of daily value
Keyword Easy, packed, Protein, Quick, Street Food