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Homemade Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki photo

Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki

This Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki is a quick and delicious meal your family will love!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef:
  • 1-2 pounds flank steak Thinly sliced into ½-inch thick strips
  • ½ cup cornstarch For coating the beef
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Or another neutral oil for frying
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil Adds a nutty flavor
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic About 2 cloves, for depth
  • 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger A fragrant addition
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce For that classic teriyaki taste
  • ½ cup light brown sugar For sweetness
  • ½ cup water To help create the sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar For a little acidity
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for slurry To thicken the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons water for slurry To mix with cornstarch

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk

Method
 

Stepwise Method:
  1. Start by slicing the flank steak into ½-inch thick strips. Make sure to cut against the grain to ensure the beef remains tender. Once sliced, place the strips in a mixing bowl and sprinkle ½ cup of cornstarch over the beef. Toss until the beef is well-coated. This step not only helps tenderize the meat but also gives it a nice crispiness when cooked.
  2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. You may need to work in batches. After cooking, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, ½ cup of light brown sugar, ½ cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Stir well to combine and let the mixture come to a simmer.
  4. While the sauce is simmering, prepare the slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully. Allow it to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to coat the strips thoroughly in the teriyaki sauce. Let it cook together for another minute to ensure the beef is heated through and well-glazed.
  6. Once everything is well combined, serve your Easy, Tender Beef Teriyaki over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch. Enjoy the delightful flavors and tender texture with your family or friends!

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.