Garlic Honey Sirloin Steak Bites
The trick here is to cut the sirloin against the grain into small, uniform cubes so they stay tender and cook in just a few minutes. The sauce is a glorious sweet-savory glaze.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
-
1.5 lbs (680g) top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
-
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
-
1 teaspoon sea salt
-
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Garlic Honey Sauce:
-
5-6 large garlic cloves, finely minced
-
⅓ cup honey (a runny, liquid honey works best)
-
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos)
-
1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste (adjust to your heat preference)
-
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar (the acid balances the sweet)
For Serving:
-
Thinly sliced green onions or chives
-
Toasted sesame seeds
-
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
-
Prep the Steak: Pat the sirloin cubes completely dry with paper towels—this is essential for getting a good sear. In a bowl, toss them with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
-
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar. Having this ready to go is crucial because the cooking process moves fast.
-
Sear the Steak Bites: Heat a large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. You want it screaming hot. Working in a single layer (do this in two batches to avoid steaming the meat), place the steak bites in the dry, hot pan. Let them sear, undisturbed, for about 1 minute to get a deep brown crust. Then toss or stir-fry for another 60-90 seconds, until mostly browned on all sides but still pink in the middle. They will finish cooking in the sauce. Transfer the seared bites to a clean plate and repeat with any remaining beef.
-
Bloom the Butter and Sauce: Remove the pan from the heat for a moment to cool slightly. Return it to medium heat and add the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, give your pre-mixed sauce one last stir and pour it into the pan.
-
Glaze the Steak: Let the sauce bubble and reduce for about 1-2 minutes, until it looks slightly thickened and syrupy. Immediately return the seared steak bites (and any resting juices) to the skillet.
-
Toss to Coat: Toss the steak bites vigorously in the bubbling sauce for just 30-45 seconds, until every piece is sticky and glazed, and the steak is cooked to a perfect medium/medium-rare. Be careful not to overcook—the residual heat will continue to cook them.
-
Serve: Remove from heat immediately. Pile the steak bites onto a serving plate and spoon over any extra glaze from the pan. Garnish generously with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving suggestion: Spoon these over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, with a side of sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli. They also make incredible party food when served with toothpicks.