Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Beef teriyaki is a classic dish that combines tender beef with a flavorful, slightly sweet and savory sauce. This easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs beautifully with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.

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Why This Recipe is Appealing

• Quick to Make: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Great with rice, noodles, or as part of a stir-fry.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the sauce or ingredients to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons mirin (or rice vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water to form a slurry)

For the Beef:

• 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add water and mix well.
2. Cook the Beef:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the sliced beef with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
   Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine:
   Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
   Serve the beef teriyaki over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

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Possible Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Sugar: Substitute brown sugar and honey with a low-calorie sweetener.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the cooked beef teriyaki in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, chicken, pork, or tofu work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. What is the best cut of beef for teriyaki?

Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the prepared sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week.

4. What should I serve with beef teriyaki?

Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice. Add a side of vegetables for a balanced meal.

5. How do I prevent the beef from overcooking?

Cook the beef quickly over high heat and remove it from the pan as soon as it’s browned.

6. Is teriyaki sauce supposed to be sweet?

Yes, traditional teriyaki sauce has a balance of sweet and savory flavors, often with a hint of ginger.

7. Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?

Yes, reduce the sauce longer over low heat to thicken naturally, or use arrowroot powder as a substitute.

8. What can I use instead of mirin?

Rice vinegar with a small amount of sugar or honey works as a good substitute.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients while maintaining the same cooking process.

10. Can I cook this dish in an air fryer?

Not entirely, but you can cook the beef strips in an air fryer and prepare the sauce separately on the stove.

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Conclusion

Easy Beef Teriyaki is a simple yet flavorful dish that you’ll want to add to your dinner rotation. Its quick preparation, rich taste, and versatility make it a standout option for weeknight meals or casual entertaining. Pair it with your favorite sides, or try one of the variations to keep things interesting. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite!

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