Korean Grilled Steak with Toasted Sesame Chimichurri: A Fusion Feast

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, ginger, gochujang (if using), sesame seeds, and black pepper. Place the steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Toasted Sesame Chimichurri: In a small pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Let the seeds cool.

   In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted sesame seeds, parsley, cilantro (if using), red wine vinegar, sesame oil, olive oil, green onions, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

3. Grill the Steaks: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steaks from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak cooked more. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes after grilling.
4. Serve: Slice the steaks against the grain and serve them on a platter. Drizzle with the toasted sesame chimichurri sauce and sprinkle with additional toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips for Serving and Storing:

• Serving Suggestions: This Korean Grilled Steak pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with Korean banchan (side dishes) for a complete meal.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet or microwave, but avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and intensify over time.

Variants:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the steak for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative. Simply marinate the tofu or mushrooms in the same Korean marinade, and grill until tender.
• Different Cuts of Meat: While ribeye or flank steaks work wonderfully for this recipe, you can use other cuts like sirloin or skirt steak. Just adjust the grilling time based on the thickness and cut of meat.
• Spicy Variation: For a spicier version, increase the amount of gochujang or add more red pepper flakes to the chimichurri sauce.

FAQ:

1. Can I use a different type of oil for the marinade? Yes, you can substitute the sesame oil with a neutral oil like vegetable oil, but the sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor that enhances the Korean theme of the dish.
2. Can I prepare the chimichurri sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, making the chimichurri in advance allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
3. How do I know when the steak is done? The best way to check steak doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Adjust the cooking time depending on your preferred doneness.
4. Can I make the chimichurri sauce without sesame seeds? While sesame seeds add a unique nutty flavor, you can omit them if you prefer a more traditional chimichurri. You can also add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a replacement.
5. What can I serve with Korean Grilled Steak? This dish goes well with a variety of sides, including steamed white rice, roasted sweet potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad with a tangy dressing.

Conclusion: Korean Grilled Steak with Toasted Sesame Chimichurri is a mouthwatering fusion dish that brings together the boldness of Korean flavors with the freshness of Argentine chimichurri. The juicy, marinated steak pairs beautifully with the herby, sesame-infused sauce, making this a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or just craving a flavorful meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.