These Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers are a tasty treat! The beef is marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce and sprinkled with crunchy sesame seeds, making every bite delicious and full of flavor.
I love how they make for a fun and easy meal, perfect for grilling. Just skewering the beef always feels like I’m a chef on a cooking show! 🍢 Enjoy them with rice or a fresh salad for a great combo.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak works great for this recipe due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken breast or even tofu for a plant-based version. Just make sure to slice it thinly!
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought teriyaki sauce is convenient, but making your own offers a fresher taste. Combine soy sauce, sugar, and mirin for a simpler homemade version. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you’re running low, a light olive oil or grapeseed oil can work as a substitute, though it won’t have the same depth. Just remember to use less than you would sesame oil.
Honey: For a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave syrup works wonderfully and provides sweetness. Adjust the amount to match your taste preference!
How Do I Marinate the Beef for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to bringing out the best flavors in your beef skewers. For maximum flavor, follow these tips:
- Use a bowl or a resealable bag to combine all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
- Make sure the beef slices are fully coated in the marinade. The longer you let it sit, the better the flavor! Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is ideal.
- If you’re short on time, even a quick marinade of 15 minutes can provide some flavor, but you may find you miss out on that depth of taste.
How to Make Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (such as Kikkoman)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and slice the beef, plus a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours is best). Grilling the skewers will take about 10 minutes total. So, plan for around 1 hour including marinating time to make delicious Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir everything well until it becomes a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the thin slices of beef to the marinade, making sure every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to soak up all those yummy flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the beef is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready when you’re done with the beef.
4. Thread the Beef on Skewers:
Once your beef is marinated, take the soaked wooden skewers and thread the beef slices onto them. You can fold the beef if needed to fit nicely on the skewer.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until they reach your desired level of doneness and have a nice char.
6. Toast the Sesame Seeds:
In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle the sesame seeds on the beef skewers. This will lightly toast them and bring out their nutty flavor!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or so. This helps keep the beef juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your skewers with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve them hot, with extra teriyaki sauce for dipping if you like. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef sirloin or flank steak works best, you can also use cuts like ribeye or skirt steak. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your slices, so keep an eye on them while grilling!
What Can I Substitute for Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts soy sauce with honey and a splash of rice vinegar. Adjust to taste for sweetness and flavor. Alternatively, a sweet soy glaze can also work well in this recipe!
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover beef skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though the texture may not be as crispy.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the beef when you’re ready to grill. This will allow the meat to absorb even more flavor!
