These Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers are a tasty mix of juicy beef and sweet teriyaki sauce, all grilled to perfection. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and flavor that you’ll love!
Serving these at a barbecue is a win! Your friends will think you’re a grill master, and really, you just followed a simple recipe. Plus, who can resist skewers? 🍢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak is ideal for this recipe, as they are tender and grill beautifully. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use chicken or tofu, both of which can soak up the marinade well.
Teriyaki Sauce: Kikkoman’s Teriyaki Marinade brings a great flavor boost. If you prefer a homemade version, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar for a quick alternative.
Sesame Oil: This ingredient adds a nuttiness to the dish. If you’re out of sesame oil, a light olive oil could work in a pinch, though it won’t have that same rich flavor.
Honey: While it’s optional, I love using honey for that extra touch of sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using agave syrup or skip it altogether!
How Do I Achieve Flavorful Marinated Beef?
The marinade is essential for infusing the beef with flavor. Make sure each slice is well-coated. If you have time, let the beef marinate for up to 2 hours; this really enhances the taste. Remember, the longer it sits, the more flavorful it will be!
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl, then add sliced beef.
- Cover and refrigerate for the recommended time; this can be done overnight as well.
- Before grilling, let the beef sit out for about 10 minutes—this helps it cook evenly.
How to Make Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the beef. If you want deeper flavors, let the beef marinate up to 2 hours. Then, cooking on the grill takes around 10-15 minutes. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour for the entire process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade, sesame oil, soy sauce, optional honey, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Mix well until it all combines into a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef into the marinade. Ensure all slices are fully coated for maximum flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While the beef is marinating, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for 30 minutes, so they don’t burn on the grill!
4. Skewer the Beef:
Once the beef is marinated, carefully thread the slices onto the skewers. You can fold them back and forth to maximize delicious surface area. It’s okay if the pieces are a bit crowded; just make sure they stay on the skewer!
5. Sprinkle the Sesame Seeds:
Before grilling, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the skewers, adding a lovely crunch and flavor.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place your skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the beef is cooked to your liking and has beautiful grill marks. Don’t overcook, as beef can become tough!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once you take the skewers off the grill, let them rest for a couple of minutes. This step helps keep the beef juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions over the skewers for a fresh finish. Serve the skewers hot and, if you’d like, offer extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and flank steak work great, you can also use cuts like ribeye or tenderloin for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and tenderness of the cut.
What Can I Use Instead of Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts soy sauce and honey or brown sugar, adding a splash of rice vinegar for acidity. This gives a sweet and savory flavor reminiscent of teriyaki!
How Should I Store Leftover Beef Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring not to overcook them again.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef up to 2 hours in advance. Just keep the marinated meat covered in the refrigerator. If you want to prepare the skewers, assemble them and refrigerate until ready to grill—just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for more even grilling!
