Slow cooker steak bites with soy sauce is a delightful dish that marries the savory flavors of soy sauce with the tender, juicy texture of slow-cooked beef. This recipe draws inspiration from Asian cuisine, where soy sauce is a staple ingredient known for its umami-rich profile. It's perfect for those who appreciate a hands-off cooking approach that yields a delicious, comforting meal. The slow cooker method ensures that the steak bites become incredibly tender, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
These steak bites pair wonderfully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes, which can soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the steak bites, providing a refreshing contrast.
Slow Cooker Steak Bites with Soy SauceServings: 4
Ingredients2 pounds of beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup beef broth
3 tablespoons brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Directions1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes to the skillet and sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, minced garlic, and black pepper.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
7. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
8. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
9. Serve the steak bites hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Variations & TipsFor a spicier version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soy sauce mixture. You can also experiment with adding different vegetables to the slow cooker, such as sliced bell peppers or mushrooms, to create a more robust dish. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce. Finally, if you want a richer sauce, substitute some of the beef broth with red wine.
