Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Sesame Seeds

Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Sesame Seeds are a delicious and visually appealing dish that combines tender, marinated beef with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce. Grilled or broiled to perfection, these skewers are coated with sesame seeds, adding a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, party dish, or main course, teriyaki beef skewers are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The marinade infuses the beef with a rich umami taste, while quick cooking ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender. This dish brings a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine right to your home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines tender, juicy beef with the sweet-savory richness of homemade teriyaki sauce, creating skewers that are bursting with flavor. The sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful nutty crunch and a touch of visual appeal, making every bite both delicious and satisfying.What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Quick to marinate and grill, these skewers are perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or entertaining guests.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Sesame Seeds are a must-try because they deliver bold, savory-sweet flavors in every bite. The tender beef absorbs the rich, slightly sweet teriyaki marinade, while the toasted sesame seeds add a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma. Each skewer is a perfect balance of juicy, flavorful meat and a touch of visual elegance.This recipe stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Quick to prepare and perfect for grilling or oven-roasting, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners, parties, or casual gatherings.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1–2 hours marinating)
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving

Course: Appetizer / Main Course
Cuisine: Asian / Japanese-Inspired

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1–2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Cooking Directions

Beef cubes are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then threaded onto skewers and grilled or broiled until just cooked. Sesame seeds are added for flavor and texture, creating a delicious and attractive dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the teriyaki marinade.
  2. Add beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours for maximum flavor.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Thread marinated beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
  5. Preheat a grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or baking sheet.
  6. Place skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness, basting occasionally with leftover marinade.
  7. Remove skewers from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve teriyaki beef skewers hot as an appetizer, party platter, or alongside steamed rice and vegetables for a main course. They also pair well with a fresh Asian slaw, pickled vegetables, or dipping sauces like extra teriyaki or spicy mayo.

Recipe Tips

  • Marinate the beef for at least 1 hour for the best flavor; overnight is even better.
  • Cut beef into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
  • Avoid overcooking to maintain tender, juicy steak bites.
  • Use tongs to turn skewers gently without losing juices.

Variations in Detail

Pineapple Teriyaki: Alternate beef with pineapple chunks on skewers for a sweet, tangy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
Vegetable Skewers: Include bell peppers, onions, or zucchini with the beef for added texture and color.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.
Honey-Lime Teriyaki: Add a splash of lime juice to the marinade for a bright citrusy note.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
Freezer: Marinated raw beef skewers can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooked skewers do not freeze well due to potential loss of texture.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Grill, broiler, or grill pan
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
  • Mixing bowl for marinade
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye cubes work best for skewers. Avoid tough cuts unless marinated for longer.

How do I prevent skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes and brush with oil before cooking.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the beef and assemble skewers in advance. Grill just before serving.

Are these skewers gluten-free?
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Sesame Seeds are a quick, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or as an appetizer. Tender beef cubes marinated in sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and topped with sesame seeds create a dish that is both delicious and impressive. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these skewers are a must-try for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine.

Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Sesame Seeds

Recipe by Elina JamesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

1

hour 

20

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Total time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

  • 1–2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

  • Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the teriyaki marinade.
  • Add beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours for maximum flavor.
  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Thread marinated beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
  • Preheat a grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or baking sheet.
  • Place skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness, basting occasionally with leftover marinade.
  • Remove skewers from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
  • Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

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