If you’re craving a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort, then look no further than Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites! This recipe combines tender beef stew meat with a delectable honey garlic sauce to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with little fuss. So let’s get cooking and discover how to make this irresistible dish!
Introduction
Slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites is perfect for those hectic days when you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of savory beef, sweet honey, and aromatic garlic creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the beef stew into bite-sized chunks and finely chop the garlic.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, honey, soy sauce, and dried oregano to make the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef stew chunks to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker and sprinkle the chopped garlic over the top.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and garlic, ensuring that all the meat is evenly coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the beef is tender and cooked through.
- Once the steak bites are cooked, serve them hot with your favorite side dishes or as a standalone appetizer.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef stew meat with cubed tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some extra heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to customize the sauce to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or balance it out with a splash of vinegar.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use sirloin, flank steak, or even ribeye steak instead of beef stew meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as different cuts of meat may require different cooking times.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and brown the beef ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Simply combine everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook and follow the instructions as usual.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can substitute the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. You can also reduce the amount of ketchup or use a sugar-free ketchup to lower the carb content.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites are a delicious and convenient meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why wait? Fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor!
