The velvet steak with Korean chili butter recipe uses the velveting technique, typically used for stir-fries, but I decided to try it on pan-fried top sirloin steaks, and my experiment was a great success! The theory behind velveting is that the egg white, cornstarch, and rice wine mixture coats the surface of the meat, locking in moisture and giving it a tender, velvety texture. Top sirloin is lean and doesn't have a lot of fat, but these steaks — thanks to the velveting — were unbelievably juicy! Serve it with rice or pasta to soak up the juices.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons rice wine , sake
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
-
1
Whisk rice wine, egg whites, cornstarch, and soy sauce together in a bowl until marinade is very smooth and foamy.
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2
Trim silver skin from sirloin steaks. Place steaks between 2 pieces of heavy plastic wrap on a cutting board. Firmly pound steaks with the smooth side of a meat mallet to a 1/4-inch thickness. Transfer steaks to a rimmed plate; lightly season both sides with kosher salt.
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3
Pour rice wine marinade over steaks; flip several times to ensure they are well coated on both sides. Cover with plastic wrap. Marinate in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 hours, flipping once or twice while marinating.
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4
Combine butter, 2 tablespoons green onions, chili paste, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; taste and adjust ingredients if needed. Set aside at room temperature or in the refrigerator until chili butter is needed.
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5
Remove steaks from the refrigerator; toss several times in marinade.
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6
Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks; cook until medium-rare and meat springs back to the touch, 3 to 4 minutes per side, or to desired doneness. An instant-read thermometer inserted into centers should read 130 degrees F (54 degrees C).
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7
Place steaks on warm plates; rest for 3 to 4 minutes. Top with chili butter and green onions.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving
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