Name: Sesame Beef Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: PT-485165H30M30S
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound beef tenderloin or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup sesame oil; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2/3 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup sugar; 10 garlic cloves, minced; 4 tablespoons grated ginger; 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds; 8 green onions, sliced; Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, these skewers are perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
Flavorful Marinade: The blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic infuses the beef with a deep, savory taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main course, or at a BBQ.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to the skewers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound beef tenderloin or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup sesame oil
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup sugar
10 garlic cloves, minced
4 tablespoons grated ginger
1 teaspoon dried chili flakes
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
8 green onions, sliced
Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine sesame oil, vegetable oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Mix well.
Marinate the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the marinade, making sure they are completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but up to 3 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6 minutes, turning halfway through. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1-3 hours
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 21 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

Vegetable Additions: Include bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms on the skewers for extra flavor and texture.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your preference for heat.
Alternative Proteins: Swap out the beef for chicken, pork, or tofu for a different take on the skewers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the skewers on a grill or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the beef?

Marinate the beef for at least 1 hour, but for best flavor, marinate for 2-3 hours.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye as alternatives to tenderloin.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can cook the skewers on a grill pan or broil them in the oven.

Can I prepare these skewers in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the beef and assemble the skewers a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

Are these skewers spicy?

The recipe has a mild level of heat due to the chili flakes. You can adjust the amount of chili to suit your taste.

What sides pair well with these skewers?

These skewers go great with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I freeze the marinated beef?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated beef in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before grilling.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, metal skewers work perfectly, and they don’t need soaking.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute beef with firm tofu or a mix of vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Conclusion

Sesame Beef Skewers are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will impress at any gathering. With a savory marinade, a quick grilling time, and plenty of opportunities to customize, these skewers are sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they offer a delicious balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.