Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons mirin (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup cold water (for mixing with cornstarch)
- For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Steamed white or brown rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef: Start by slicing the beef thinly across the grain. This ensures that the meat remains tender and cooks quickly. For the best texture, place the beef in the freezer for 15 minutes before slicing; this makes it easier to get even, thin slices. Set aside while you prepare the marinade.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, mirin (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger. In a separate cup, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then add it to the sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Stir-Frying the Beef: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the beef slices in a single layer. Cook the beef for about 2 minutes on each side until browned. It’s essential to cook the meat in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper searing. Once all the beef is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside.
4. Cooking the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir in the onions and carrots first, as they take the longest to cook. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, add the bell peppers and broccoli florets. Stir-fry the vegetables for another 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. The goal is to maintain a slight crunch for texture and color.
5. Combining the Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Give the teriyaki sauce another stir and pour it over the beef and veggies. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables evenly. The cornstarch will cause the sauce to thicken into a glossy glaze.
6. Garnishing and Serving: Once the stir-fry is ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and color. Serve the teriyaki beef stir-fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles. You can also add a side of pickled ginger or a fresh cucumber salad for contrast.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to substitute or add more vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or baby corn. You can also include mushrooms for an earthier flavor.
- Protein Alternatives: While beef is traditional, you can swap it for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different spin on this dish.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Make it Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.
The Origins of Teriyaki:
The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri,” which means shine or luster (referring to the sauce’s glossy appearance), and “yaki,” which means grilled or pan-fried. While the original teriyaki in Japan typically involves grilling fish with a sweet soy-based glaze, the Western adaptation has expanded to include meat like beef or chicken, stir-fried with vegetables and served with a more substantial sauce.
Nutritional Information:
This dish is relatively balanced, offering a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The teriyaki sauce does contain sugar, but using a natural sweetener like honey can make it a healthier option. Pairing it with brown rice or quinoa increases the fiber content, making it a wholesome meal.
Leftovers and Storage:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s consistency and prevent the beef from becoming tough. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing Suggestions:
For a complete meal, consider pairing your Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry with a light miso soup or a crisp cucumber and seaweed salad. If you’re serving this for a more elaborate dinner, adding dumplings or spring rolls on the side can make the meal feel extra special.