Sesame beef is a flavorful, savory dish that has become a favorite in many Chinese-American restaurants. The crispy beef is coated in a sweet and savory sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. The combination of tender beef, a hint of sweetness, and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds makes this dish an irresistible treat.
The key to sesame beef is the crispy texture. The beef is coated with cornstarch, which helps it achieve a crunchy exterior when fried. This creates a perfect contrast to the tender, juicy interior of the beef, making each bite a delightful experience. The crispy beef is then tossed in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar. The sauce is rich, slightly sweet, and savory, with a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the beef.
To finish, toasted sesame seeds are sprinkled over the dish, adding an extra layer of crunch and a subtle nuttiness. The sesame seeds not only enhance the texture but also bring a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and sweet sauce. A sprinkle of green onions or red pepper flakes can also be added for a touch of freshness or heat, making the dish even more dynamic.
This beef is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. It’s often paired with steamed rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce, or alongside sautéed vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers. The balance of flavors in beef makes it a great dish for both casual meals and special occasions.
Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with something flavorful and satisfying, sesame beef is a perfect choice. The crispy beef, rich sauce, and toasted sesame seeds come together to create a dish that’s both indulgent and delicious, making it a go-to favorite in many households.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef flank steak sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 pieces green onions sliced
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned.
- If using, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to make a slurry and add to the skillet to thicken the sauce.
- Stir in toasted sesame seeds and remove from heat.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Serve with pasta.
Nutrition
Yall, I added bell peppers and it was lit 😍🔥 Definitely making again!
I don’t think soy sauce with brown sugar is a good idea… Seems off to me.
This recipe is super easy and tastes amazing! My family loved it!
Didn’t have sesame oil, used olive oil? 😬 Tasted okay but not the same.
This was okay, but too sweet for my taste. Might try less sugar next time.
I replaced beef with chicken and it was bomb! Just as good.
I used chicken instead of beef and it was still great! Just a suggestion for chicken lovers.
Tasted good, but is it really necessary to add sugar? I think it’s too sweet.
Sugar is a must for that balance! But if you don’t like sweet, just don’t add as much! No big deal.
I understand your concern! You can definitely reduce the sugar or even skip it. The soy sauce should give it enough flavor! 👍
Not bad, but I think it could use more soy sauce. It was a bit bland for my taste.
I totally agree! A little more soy sauce would definitely enhance the flavor. I added an extra tablespoon and it was perfect for me!
Tried this and it was ok but I think it needed more seasoning. Salt? The flavor was kinda flat.
Why would you serve this with pasta? It’s beef! Should go with rice.
I was skeptical about the brown sugar, but it added a unique sweetness. Would recommend!
I’m glad you liked the brown sugar! It really does bring a nice depth to the dish. 👍
Absolutely loved this recipe! Turned out so delicious and easy to make. Will make again!
I tried it too! Came out great! Best recipe for a quick dinner.
Looks good, but is beef healthy? I don’t know if it’s worth the calories…
I don’t know what went wrong but mine came out really tough. Maybe I overcooked the beef?
I don’t think it was just you. My friend said hers was chewy too. Maybe check the temp or cut the beef differently?
Overcooking can definitely make the beef tough! Try cooking it for a shorter time next time. I usually only do 2-3 mins on high heat. Good luck!
This sesame beef is superb! My family devoured it! Next time, I’ll try adding peppers for extra crunch.
I don’t know about adding pasta to this. It seems odd. Shouldn’t it be rice instead?
I made this but forgot the sesame oil. It was alright but I think it could’ve been better.
Sounds fancy but I think sesame oil is too strong. I might try it with olive oil next time.
I didn’t have sesame oil, so I used olive oil. Still turned out nice!
Easy to make! I let my kids help, they loved stirring it!
Nah, didn’t like it. The beef was tough and the flavor just wasn’t what I was expecting.
Not great. Meat was tough. Maybe I cooked it too long?
This recipe is fine I guess, but I don’t get why you would serve it with pasta. Beef should be with rice! 🤷♂️
Yum! Just yum! I love sesame seeds. Next time I’m gonna add some broccoli!
Wow, so simple but tastes like a restaurant meal! 10/10 would recommend.
My kids loved it! Thought they wouldn’t eat beef but they cleared their plates!
Simple and delicious! I added broccoli and it was perfect. Will definitely make again!
Not sure if broccoli goes with beef and pasta, but everyone has their tastes. I prefer it without anything extra.
I’m glad you liked it! Adding broccoli sounds like a great idea, I’ll have to try that next time.
I made this but forgot the sesame oil. 😂 It turned out fine anyway! Maybe try it with hickory smoke oil?
Glad it turned out! Hickory smoke oil sounds interesting, but might change the flavor a lot. 🤔
DISASTER! My beef was tough and chewy. I followed the instructions too. 😡
I’m sorry to hear that! Maybe try a different cut of meat next time? Flank steak can be tough if not sliced against the grain.
Lol, maybe you overcooked it? Beef shouldn’t be chewy if done right! 😂
Absolutely delicious! The flavors are on point!
yum! 🍽️
This sesame beef is a game changer! I made it last night and it was so delicious. My family loved it!
beef + sesame = yum! 😋
Disappointed. My sauce didn’t thicken, even with cornstarch. What did I do wrong? Anyone else have this issue?
My husband said he doesn’t like ‘asian’ food, but he ate 3 servings!! 🤫 I call that a win!
I wonder if he actually likes it or just pretended to for you? 🤔
Haha, that’s hilarious! Sometimes they just need a little convincing, right? 😂
Is it really that easy? I’m worried about cooking beef, mine always turns out weird. 😟
This sesame beef was really delicious! I made it for my family and they loved it!
I LOVE sesame beef!!! This is my go-to recipe now. Thank you so much, it’s simple and quick!
Beef don’t usually taste like this! Not a fan but my kids liked it.