Teriyaki Beef Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Teriyaki Beef Skewers are a savory, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for grilling season, casual dinners, or special occasions. Tender chunks of beef are marinated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce and then skewered for easy grilling. The marinade imparts a delightful sweet and salty flavor to the beef, making each bite mouthwateringly delicious. These skewers are perfect for serving at barbecues, family gatherings, or even as a fun weeknight dinner.

The combination of perfectly seared beef, aromatic spices, and a tangy sauce makes these Teriyaki Beef Skewers irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting, this recipe offers an easy and foolproof way to make skewers that are packed with flavor and appeal to all ages. Paired with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad, this dish can serve as the centerpiece of any meal.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, including how to prepare the marinade, skewer the beef, grill the skewers, and serve them to perfection. Plus, we’ll share tips and tricks for making your Teriyaki Beef Skewers even better!

Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Beef Skewers

• Quick & Easy: With a minimal amount of prep time and a simple marinade, these beef skewers are easy to make and grill, making them an ideal dish for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
• Flavorful & Juicy: The homemade teriyaki sauce creates a glaze that coats the beef, making it tender, juicy, and bursting with rich, savory flavors. The marinating process ensures the beef absorbs all the deliciousness.
• Perfect for Grilling: These skewers are tailor-made for grilling, allowing the beef to develop a beautiful sear while retaining its juiciness. You can cook them on an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan, or even in the oven.
• Customizable: This recipe is highly versatile. You can swap the beef for other proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu, or add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skewers.
• Great for Entertaining: These skewers are perfect for parties, barbecues, or even holiday meals. They’re easy to serve, fun to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Healthy: Teriyaki Beef Skewers are a great source of protein and essential nutrients, especially when paired with fresh grilled vegetables or a light salad. They are a balanced meal option that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (for best flavor)
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories, depending on specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 8-10g

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Beef Skewers:

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Marinade:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon mirin (optional, adds sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 green onion, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Special Equipment

To make these Teriyaki Beef Skewers, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Skewers: Use either metal or wooden skewers to thread the beef. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
2. Grill or Grill Pan: A grill or grill pan is ideal for making Teriyaki Beef Skewers, as it allows the beef to sear and cook evenly. You can use an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan, or even a broiler in your oven.
3. Small Bowl: You’ll need a small bowl to mix the teriyaki marinade and a separate small bowl for mixing the cornstarch slurry (if using).
4. Basting Brush: A basting brush will help you glaze the skewers with the teriyaki sauce as they cook, adding even more flavor to the beef.
5. Tongs or Grill Fork: These will help you flip and move the skewers on the grill safely.
6. Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need a sharp knife to cut the beef into cubes and prepare the garlic, ginger, and any garnishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, grated ginger, and mirin (if using). Stir everything together until the sugar has dissolved. This mixture will form the base of your marinade, which imparts rich umami flavor to the beef.

For a slightly thicker glaze, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the marinade. This step is optional, but it helps create a thicker sauce that will stick to the beef as it grills.

2. Marinate the Beef

Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. You can use sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye, depending on your preference and budget. Choose a cut of beef that’s tender and suitable for grilling. Sirloin is a great option as it’s both flavorful and affordable.

Place the beef cubes in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the beef, ensuring that all the pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for the best flavor. Marinating the beef allows it to absorb all the delicious teriyaki flavors.

3. Prepare the Skewers

While the beef is marinating, prepare your skewers. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, they don’t require soaking.

Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. If you’d like to add vegetables, you can alternate between the beef and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms on the skewers.

4. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat as well. Lightly oil the grill grates or the grill pan with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the skewers from sticking.

5. Grill the Skewers

Place the beef skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the beef is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. If you prefer your beef more well-done, you can grill it a little longer. If you’re adding vegetables to the skewers, make sure they are also cooked to your liking.

While the skewers are grilling, baste them with additional teriyaki marinade using a basting brush. This will enhance the flavor and create a beautiful glaze on the beef.

6. Serve the Skewers

Once the beef is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish the skewers with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and texture.

Serve the Teriyaki Beef Skewers with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Beef Skewers

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: The longer you marinate the beef, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating, but 2 hours will give the beef the best flavor infusion.
• Use Tender Cuts of Beef: Choose a tender cut of beef for this recipe. Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye are all excellent options. Tougher cuts can work, but they may require longer marinating and grilling times.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Be sure to leave some space between the pieces of beef on the skewers. This ensures even cooking and allows the grill to sear the beef properly.
• Grill at Medium-High Heat: Grilling at medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the beef while keeping it juicy. If the heat is too low, the beef might cook unevenly; if it’s too high, the outside may burn before the inside cooks.
• Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor: Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for added flavor and texture. Make sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Use the Marinade as a Sauce: After marinating the beef, you can simmer the leftover marinade in a small saucepan to make a sauce to drizzle over the skewers before serving. Just be sure to bring it to a boil for a few minutes to ensure it’s safe to consume.

Variations of Teriyaki Beef Skewers

• Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Substitute the beef with boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Chicken takes slightly less time to cook, so keep an eye on it while grilling.
• Teriyaki Pork Skewers: Pork tenderloin or pork shoulder works great for skewers. Marinate and grill the same way as beef, adjusting the grilling time for the type of pork used.
• Vegetarian Teriyaki Skewers: For a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it and marinate it in the teriyaki sauce before grilling.
• Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers: For a seafood twist, swap the beef for shrimp. Marinate them for a shorter time (15-20 minutes) and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftover Teriyaki Beef Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them under the broiler for a few minutes or warm them up on the grill. You can also freeze the skewers for up to 3 months. To freeze, remove the beef from the skewers and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Teriyaki Beef Skewers

• Steamed Rice: Serve your Teriyaki Beef Skewers with a side of steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, to your meal for a balanced and flavorful side dish.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy and refreshing Asian-inspired slaw would pair perfectly with the savory beef skewers. Toss cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing for a light and tangy contrast.
• Sautéed Greens: Sautéed bok choy, spinach, or kale would make a great healthy side dish that complements the richness of the teriyaki beef.

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Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef Skewers are a simple yet delicious dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings any day of the week. With tender, marinated beef grilled to perfection and coated with a rich, flavorful teriyaki glaze, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy these skewers as a meal on their own or paired with your favorite sides for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.