These Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers are tasty and fun! Juicy pieces of beef are marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds, giving them a lovely crunch.
Every bite is a burst of flavor! I love making these for get-togethers because they’re easy to share and always a hit. Just fire up the grill and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: This cut is lean and flavorful, perfect for skewers. You can swap it with flank steak or even chicken breast if you prefer poultry. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or tofu marinated similarly!
Teriyaki Marinade: Kikkoman is a popular choice, but you can also make your own teriyaki sauce at home using soy sauce, honey, and mirin. If you want less sugar, consider low-sodium soy sauce mixed with fresh citrus juice for a zingy tang.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor to the dish. If you’re out of it, you can replace it with a neutral oil like vegetable oil, though you might miss that unique taste. Toasted sesame oil is a great choice for extra flavor if available.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh ingredients are best for intensity in flavors. If fresh ones aren’t on hand, try using powdered garlic and ginger, but reduce the quantity—start with about half.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking on Skewers?
Getting perfectly cooked beef on skewers takes a little attention. Start by slicing your beef strips evenly; this helps them cook uniformly. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the skewers. A hot grill gives a nice sear and grill marks.
- Leave space between each piece of beef on the skewer. This allows the heat to circulate and cook the meat evenly.
- Keep an eye on the beef! Cooking for 3-4 minutes per side is usually enough, but it depends on the thickness. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—medium-rare should be 135°F.
Following these steps will help you achieve juicy skewers that are perfectly cooked from edge to edge!
How to Make Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
- 1/2 cup Kikkoman teriyaki marinade and sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
For the Garnish:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep time and you’ll need to marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. Grilling will take around 8-10 minutes. So, plan for a total of around 50 minutes to 2 hours from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki marinade, sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This will be the delicious marinade for your beef!
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the beef strips into the marinade, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will give you even better flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the beef is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures it’s ready to go when you’re done marinating the beef.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the beef is marinated, it’s time to thread it onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Take each strip and thread it onto a skewer, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps the beef cook evenly on the grill.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and ensure the beef is cooked to your liking. If you prefer it medium-rare or more well-done, adjust the cooking time slightly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for a tasty garnish that looks great too! Serve the Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers warm, and feel free to pair them with steamed rice or some fresh vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can also use flank steak, tenderloin, or even ribeye. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content, so adjust your grilling time accordingly.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken or Vegetables?
Yes, you can definitely substitute chicken breast or thighs for beef! For a vegetarian option, firm tofu or assorted vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms work beautifully. Just remember to adjust the marinating time: tofu may only need about 20-30 minutes, while chicken should marinate for at least an hour.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a grill or stovetop pan over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option, though grilling will refresh the flavor and texture better!
What Can I Serve with Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a side of dipping sauce, like extra teriyaki or a spicy mayo, to enhance the flavors even more!
