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Sticky Sweet Beef Teriyaki

sticky sweet beef teriyaki - featured image

A quick and easy homemade teriyaki beef recipe featuring tender beef glazed in a luscious, slightly sweet sauce that balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice the beef into thin strips about 1/4-inch thick, cutting across the grain to keep it tender (5-7 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves (2-3 minutes).
  3. Mix cornstarch with water in a small cup until smooth to create a slurry; set aside.
  4. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1 tablespoon oil, swirling to coat.
  5. Add the sliced beef in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still juicy. Remove beef and set aside.
  6. Lower heat to medium, pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the pan, bring to a simmer, then slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Stir until sauce thickens and becomes glossy (about 2 minutes).
  7. Return the seared beef to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  8. Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when searing beef to avoid steaming. Use fresh ginger and garlic for best flavor. Add cornstarch slurry gradually and remove from heat once sauce is glossy to prevent over-thickening. Marinate beef briefly in half the sauce for extra flavor if desired. Add chili flakes for heat or swap soy sauce for tamari to make gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef teriyaki, sticky sweet beef, homemade teriyaki, easy dinner, quick teriyaki recipe, weeknight meal, Asian beef recipe