Savory Soy-Garlic Rib-eye Steaks with Stir-Fried Vegetables

1. Preparation

First, in a small bowl, combine the melted butter, soy sauce, and minced garlic. This mixture will infuse the butter with rich umami flavors, enhancing the taste of both the steaks and the vegetables. Once mixed, set the bowl aside.

2. Season Steaks

Pat the rib-eye steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Then, sprinkle them evenly with 1 teaspoon of white pepper and ¾ teaspoon of table salt. This seasoning will help to bring out the natural flavors of the beef.

3. Cook Steaks

Heat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot. Add the vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet. Place the steaks in the skillet and cook them, flipping frequently for even cooking, until they are well browned and the internal temperature registers 120-125°F for medium-rare, about 10-13 minutes. The frequent flipping helps to develop a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Once done, transfer the steaks to a carving board, tent them loosely with aluminum foil, and let them rest. Resting the meat is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the steaks tender and flavorful.

4. Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the zucchini, onions, and shiitake mushrooms. Sprinkle the vegetables with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of white pepper and ¼ teaspoon of table salt. Let them cook undisturbed for a minute to get some color, then stir occasionally until they begin to soften and brown, about 5 minutes. Add the mirin and 2 tablespoons of the soy-garlic butter mixture to the skillet, stirring to coat the vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

5. Serve

Transfer the cooked vegetables to a serving platter. Slice the rested steaks into ¼-inch thick slices and arrange them on the platter with the vegetables. Drizzle the remaining soy-garlic butter over the top of the steaks and serve immediately. Enjoy your savory soy-garlic rib-eye steaks with stir-fried vegetables!