These Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers are a tasty treat! Tender beef is marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
Grilling these skewers is super fun and makes me feel like a master chef (even if the smoke alarm goes off sometimes)! I can’t resist serving them with rice or veggies for a yummy meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or tenderloin works best for these skewers due to their tenderness. If you want a budget-friendly option, you can use flank steak or even chicken if you prefer poultry. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
Teriyaki Sauce: Kikkoman is a solid choice for teriyaki marinade, but any brand will do. If you want a homemade option, mix soy sauce, honey, sake, and mirin for a quick blend. For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil or peanut oil, although it won’t deliver the same taste. Just be cautious with the quantity to avoid overpowering your dish.
Fresh Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is key for the best flavor. But if you only have powdered forms, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder and garlic powder each in a pinch. Fresh will always make a difference in taste, though!
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from My Marinade?
Marinating the beef is crucial for building flavor. To really elevate the taste, allow it to marinate longer, ideally up to 2 hours. Just mix the marinade in a bowl and add the beef cubes, tossing well to coat. Cover it up and let it chill in the fridge!
- Combine Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
- Add your beef cubes; coat them evenly.
- Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Another tip is to reserve some marinade before adding the beef so you can use it for basting while grilling. This adds a delicious layer of flavor to your skewers as they cook!
Delicious Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the beef. If you have time, marinate it for up to 2 hours for more flavor. You’ll also need around 15 minutes for grilling, making the total time approximately 55 to 65 minutes. Quick and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. Mix together the Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Add the cubed beef and toss it all around until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you can wait for 2 hours, the beef will taste even better!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill and helps them last through the cooking process.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the beef marinates and the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your skewers cook evenly and develop that nice charred flavor.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the beef has marinated, take it out and set the marinade aside. Now, carefully thread the beef cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece so they can cook properly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the prepared skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Don’t forget to baste them with the reserved marinade during grilling for extra flavor. You want the beef to be nicely browned and cooked to your liking.
6. Add Sesame Seeds:
In the last couple of minutes of grilling, sprinkle sesame seeds over the skewers. This will toast the seeds lightly and give your skewers added crunch and flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When the skewers are done, carefully take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. To finish, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top. Now they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers with some delicious dipping sauces or over a bed of rice. Yum!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and tenderloin are great choices for tenderness, you can also use flank or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice against the grain for the best texture. If using a tougher cut, marinating for a few extra hours will help tenderize the meat.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No worries! You can substitute sesame oil with vegetable or canola oil if you’re in a pinch. Just note that you’ll miss the distinct nutty flavor of sesame oil. Adding a few teaspoons of toasted sesame seeds can help bring that flavor back to the dish!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of water in the pan before covering to help steam and retain moisture!
Can I Cook These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the beef is cooked to desired doneness. This method is great for when grilling isn’t an option!
