Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki

If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that is both delicious and simple to make, look no further than this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki. With just a handful of ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike. This dish combines the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger with the sweetness of brown sugar, resulting in a stir-fry that is perfect over rice or noodles. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful recipe in no time!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something so satisfying about a homemade teriyaki dish. It’s quick, flavorful, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. I love this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki for its versatility; it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it impresses just as much for special occasions. The flank steak becomes incredibly tender when marinated in the rich teriyaki sauce, and the entire dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more beef into your meals while keeping everything light and vibrant.

Ingredient Checklist

To make this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki, gather the following ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds flank steak – sliced into ½-inch thick strips
• ½ cup cornstarch – for coating the beef
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – or other neutral oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – about 2 cloves
• 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup lightly packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – for slurry
• 2 tablespoons water – for slurry

What’s in the Gear List

To make this dish, you will need a few essential gear items:

• Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying the beef.
• Cutting board – for slicing the flank steak.
• Sharp knife – for easy slicing of the meat.
• Mixing bowl – for preparing the sauce and slurry.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Build Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak into ½-inch thick strips against the grain. This ensures that the meat will be tender and easy to chew.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch until well-coated. This step is crucial as it helps create a crispy exterior when the beef is cooked.

Step 3: Heat the Oils

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat. The combination of oils adds depth to the flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the coated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 2-3 minutes. This will give it a nice golden-brown color. Flip the beef and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 5: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the sauce in the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the beef to the skillet and toss it in the teriyaki sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

This Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki is not only delicious as is, but it also lends itself well to seasonal upgrades. Here are some ideas:

• Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
• In the fall, toss in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• In the summer, serve with fresh bell peppers or zucchini for a vibrant dish.
• Top with fresh cilantro or green onions for a refreshing garnish any time of year.

Method to the Madness

The magic of this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki lies in its simplicity and speed. Here’s a quick breakdown of the method:

• Prep the beef by slicing and coating it with cornstarch.
• Heat the oils in a skillet for a perfect sear.
• Cook the beef quickly to lock in flavors and tenderness.
• Prepare a homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory.
• Combine and serve with your favorite grains or veggies.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki is perfect for leftovers! Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Store leftover beef teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out.
• Consider meal prepping by cooking a larger batch and portioning it out for quick lunches throughout the week.
• This dish also freezes well—simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! This teriyaki sauce works wonderfully with chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may need a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos is a great choice. It has a similar flavor profile and is a fantastic option for those avoiding soy.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki is not inherently spicy. However, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced chili peppers if you enjoy a little heat!

How can I make this gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you love this Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki, you might also enjoy these healthy-ish recipes:

• Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry
• Veggie Fried Rice
• Quinoa Salad with Grilled Vegetables
• Slow Cooker Beef Bowls

That’s a Wrap

This Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen without the hassle. It’s quick to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and can easily be adapted to your taste preferences. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a plate of tender, flavorful beef teriyaki that will have everyone asking for seconds!