How to Make Korean Sanjeok Skewers

Food is for sharing in Korean culture, and the beloved pan-fried Sanjeok skewers are a treat to savour with your loved ones. Every Sanjeok stick features layers of savoury meat and juicy veggies in a delicate omelette wrap, made to delight and satisfy.

Sanjeok is also a must-have food for Korean Thanksgiving Day (Chuseok) and Lunar New Year, symbolising wealth, good fortune, and harmony. Each year, families would make Sanjeok skewers together to enjoy during the festivities!

So, let’s make some Sanjeok skewers for your celebration!

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Sirloin or porterhouse steak is best for Sanjeok. Imitation crab meat is also a traditional favourite. We’ll be savouring both in our recipe.

For the veggie layers, choose firm and crunchy types for texture and easy cooking. We choose the carrot for its colour and mildly sweet flavour, and the spring onion whites near the roots for the aroma.

Also prepare eggs, flour and ¼ teaspoon salt for the batter. Last but not least, for the dipping sauce blend: 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, chopped spring onion stalks and toasted sesame seeds.

Step 2: Marinate!

Mix the marinade ingredients. Cut the steak into strips and marinate with light soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, a dash of black pepper, and sesame oil for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Thread the skewers

Cut the carrot into sticks and blanch for 3-4 minutes. This will give them a soft, crunchy bite. Then thread the carrot sticks, spring onion whites, imitation crab stick, and marinated beef strips in alternating layers.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Coat the skewers lightly with flour. Then beat the eggs with salt, and dip the skewers into the egg, ensuring they’re fully coated.

Step 5: Cook the skewers

Heat your frying pan with a bit of cooking oil. Pan-fry the skewers until the egg batter firms up and turns fragrant and golden. Mix the dipping sauce ingredients, and share the tasty Sanjeok with your loved ones! Get the simplified recipe here.