Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet and savory aroma of Beef Teriyaki sizzling in the pan. This classic Japanese-inspired dish features tender strips of beef coated in a glossy, umami-rich sauce that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

I first started making this dish as a quick weeknight solution when I needed something delicious yet simple. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, it has become a go-to favorite for busy evenings.

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Get ready to fall in love with this quick and flavorful dish. Easy Beef Teriyaki is a lifesaver for anyone looking for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy. You can have this meal on the table in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is tight.

It's also budget-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at a fraction of the cost.

This recipe is versatile too! Swap out the beef for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to suit different dietary preferences.

Best of all, it’s kid-friendly. The slightly sweet sauce makes it a hit with little ones, and you can serve it with their favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Beef Teriyaki lies in its balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect sauce.

Beef: I recommend using flank steak or sirloin for this dish. These cuts are tender and cook quickly, especially when sliced thinly against the grain.

Soy sauce: This forms the base of the sauce, providing a deep, savory flavor. I prefer using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

Brown sugar & honey: These add the signature sweetness to the sauce while also helping to create that irresistible caramelized glaze on the beef.

Garlic & ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger give the sauce an aromatic kick, enhancing the overall flavor.

Cornstarch: This is used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats the beef beautifully without being too runny.

If you have a wok, it’s perfect for cooking this dish, but a large non-stick skillet works just as well!

How To Make This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Making Beef Teriyaki at home is incredibly simple, and it comes together in just a few steps.

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This ensures the beef remains tender and doesn't become chewy. Toss the slices in a bit of cornstarch to help them crisp up when cooked and give the sauce a better texture.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of vegetable oil and sear the beef in batches, ensuring each piece gets a nice golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this helps achieve that delicious caramelization.

While the beef is cooking, whisk together your teriyaki sauce ingredients: soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar for balance. Add this mixture to the pan once the beef is browned.

Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The cornstarch on the beef will help thicken the sauce naturally as it cooks.

Once the sauce is thick and glossy, toss everything together to ensure each piece of beef is well coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

This entire dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most satisfying meals you can whip up.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, Beef Teriyaki stores beautifully for meal prep. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently to preserve texture.
• Reheating: Warm it up in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to switch things up based on what you have on hand.

• Protein swaps: If you’re not a fan of beef, try using chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead.
• Sweetener alternatives: Swap out the brown sugar and honey for maple syrup or even a sugar-free alternative for a lower-carb option.
• Gluten-free version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
• Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spicy twist: Stir in some red pepper flakes or sriracha for a bit of heat.

No matter how you customize it, this Easy Beef Teriyaki is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

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