Beef Teriyaki Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Japanese-Inspired Dish

Beef Teriyaki is a popular Japanese dish that has gained a lot of love worldwide. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. While many people opt for store-bought teriyaki sauce, making your own at home can take this dish to the next level. Plus, it’s easier than you might think!

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious Beef Teriyaki from scratch, using a sirloin cut of beef. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be accessible, enjoyable, and most importantly, tasty.

What is Beef Teriyaki?

Teriyaki is a traditional Japanese cooking method where foods are broiled or grilled with a glaze of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The term “teriyaki” refers to the shiny, glazed appearance of the dish after it’s cooked. While chicken teriyaki is common, using beef offers a rich and hearty variation that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory sauce.

Ingredients for Beef Teriyaki

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Beef

• 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak (or any cut of beef you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

For Garnish

• 2-3 spring onions (thinly sliced)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef Teriyaki

Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious Beef Teriyaki. We’ll start by preparing the beef, followed by making the teriyaki sauce from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by selecting your cut of beef. For this recipe, we’re using sirloin steak because it’s tender and flavorful, but you can use other cuts like ribeye or flank steak depending on your preference.

1. Slice the Beef: Cut the sirloin steak into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. It’s essential to cut against the grain to ensure the beef remains tender when cooked.
2. Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef into a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of mirin and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Mix until the beef is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step infuses the beef with the rich flavors of the marinade, making it juicy and delicious.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Once the beef has marinated, it’s time to cook it. Cooking in batches helps to achieve a nice sear on each piece without overcrowding the pan.

1. Heat the Pan: Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a preheated pan over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the pan in batches, frying each batch for about 4-5 minutes until the meat is lightly browned. Avoid overcooking to keep the beef tender. Once browned, set the beef aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

The heart of any good teriyaki dish is the sauce. Making it from scratch is straightforward and much more rewarding than using a store-bought version.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of mirin, 2 tablespoons of sake, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir the mixture over medium-low heat until the sugar has fully dissolved.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, dilute 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water, stirring until smooth. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Adjust the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a bit more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for a saltier flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Beef and Sauce

Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together.

1. Return the Beef to the Pan: Place the cooked beef back into the pan and pour the teriyaki sauce over it.
2. Simmer Together: Allow the beef to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the meat is fully coated. This step lets the beef absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Beef Teriyaki is best enjoyed fresh and hot, with the sauce generously spooned over the meat.

1. Plate the Beef: Arrange the beef on a serving plate, spooning any extra sauce over the top.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle thinly sliced spring onions and sesame seeds over the beef for a burst of color and added flavor.

More Recipes: Korean Beef Bowl Recipe

Tips for the Perfect Beef Teriyaki

To ensure your Beef Teriyaki turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients, especially the beef and soy sauce, can make a big difference in the final dish.
• Cut Against the Grain: Slicing the beef against the grain is key to keeping it tender.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Take your time when making the teriyaki sauce. Letting it thicken slowly ensures a smooth, glossy finish.
• Serve Immediately: Beef Teriyaki is best enjoyed fresh. The sauce can thicken further as it cools, so it’s a good idea to serve it as soon as it’s ready.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Teriyaki pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal. For a complete Japanese-inspired dinner, consider adding a bowl of miso soup or a side of pickled ginger.

Why Make Teriyaki Sauce from Scratch?

While it might be tempting to use a store-bought teriyaki sauce, making it from scratch allows you to control the flavors and ensure the sauce is free from preservatives or artificial ingredients. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, and the difference in taste is worth the extra effort.

Final Thoughts

Beef Teriyaki is a versatile dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The homemade teriyaki sauce is a game-changer, adding depth and richness to the beef. With a little practice, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dish in no time.

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