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Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Tender slices of beef in a glossy, garlicky-sweet teriyaki sauce. A quick weeknight favorite over steamed rice.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.25 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 0.5 cup soy sauce
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 0.33 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch for slurry
  • 2 tbsp cold water for slurry
  • 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
  • 0.5 cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Pat the sliced beef dry with paper towels. Season lightly with black pepper.
  • Whisk soy sauce, 1/2 cup water, brown sugar, mirin, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
  • Stir cornstarch with cold water in a small cup until smooth to make a slurry.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Sear the beef in two batches, 1–2 minutes per side, just until browned. Transfer to a plate.
  • Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a lively simmer, scraping up browned bits.
  • Whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Simmer, stirring, until the sauce turns glossy and thick, 1–2 minutes.
  • Return the beef and any juices to the pan. Toss to coat and warm through, about 1 minute.
  • Fold in most of the green onions and sesame seeds. Reserve a pinch for garnish and serve.

Notes

Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken thighs and simmer an extra 2–3 minutes. For a glossy restaurant-style finish, add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick. Serve over steamed rice or toss with stir-fried vegetables. Leftovers keep up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat gently with a spoonful of water.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.