These Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy beef! Marinated in sweet teriyaki sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds, they’re packed with flavor.
Grilling these skewers makes for a perfect outdoor feast. I love serving them with rice and veggies—it’s an easy way to impress friends and family. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak: These cuts are flavorful and tender, making them perfect for skewers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade: This sauce brings a great depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use homemade teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. It’s simple and tasty!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nice nutty flavor. You could substitute it with olive oil or canola if needed, but it might lose that distinct taste. I love using toasted sesame oil for an extra kick!
Honey: Adding honey gives a lovely sweetness to the beef. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup works well. You can also skip it if you prefer a savory flavor.
Sesame Seeds: These add crunch and flavor. Feel free to omit if you don’t have them or substitute with chopped nuts for a different texture.
How Do You Marinate Beef Properly?
Marinating the beef is key to a perfect flavor boost! Ensure the beef is well coated in the marinade. Do this by using a bowl that’s big enough for the beef to be submerged in the liquid. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix the marinating ingredients together, then add the beef pieces.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want it really flavorful.
- Turn the beef occasionally for even marination.
This will help the flavors soak in, making your skewers delicious!
How to Make Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. So, plan for around 45 minutes if you’re in a hurry, or up to 2 hours if you want that extra flavor from the marinade. Plus, there’s grilling time of about 10 minutes. A delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a large bowl, mix together the Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade, sesame oil, honey (if you’re using it), and soy sauce. Add the bite-sized pieces of beef and give it a gentle stir until they’re all well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want to really enhance that flavor.
2. Prepare Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help prevent them from burning. While they soak, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook!
3. Assemble Skewers:
Once the beef has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Carefully thread the marinated beef pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly—this will help get that perfect grill mark!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Now it’s time to grill! Place your skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook. You want them nicely browned but still juicy!
5. Add Sesame Seeds:
In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the skewers. Let them toast slightly for added flavor—that nutty aroma will be amazing!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish them with the chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Teriyaki Sesame Beef Skewers hot and full of flavor!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef sirloin or flank steak are great choices, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a more tender option. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so keep an eye on the skewers while grilling!
What Can I Use Instead of Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar can work as a substitute. Combine 1/4 cup soy sauce with 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar for a similar flavor profile!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal! Just be careful not to overheat, as this may dry out the beef.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef several hours in advance or even overnight to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to keep the marinated beef covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Assemble and cook right before serving for the best taste!