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Sesame Beef

Shruthi
Sesame Beef features tender beef strips coated in a rich, glossy sesame sauce.Cornstarch creates a light coating that helps the beef brown beautifully.Soy sauce provides savory depth while honey adds a touch of sweetness.Fresh garlic and ginger give the dish a fragrant aromatic flavor.Toasted sesame seeds add nuttiness and satisfying texture.Serve this delicious beef over steamed rice for an easy homemade takeout-style meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine asian inspired, Chinese-American
Servings 4
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Beef

  • 1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin steak
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper, optional
  • ¾ cup cornstarch, for coating
  • Vegetable or peanut oil, for cooking

For the Sesame Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ teaspoon chili garlic sauce, optional

For Garnishing

  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh red chili, thinly sliced, optional
  • Fresh cilantro, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place the steak on a cutting board and slice it thinly against the grain.
    Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender.
  • Place the sliced beef in a large bowl.
    Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, cornstarch, black pepper, and white pepper.
    Toss thoroughly and allow the beef to marinate for approximately 20 minutes.
  • Place the additional cornstarch in a shallow bowl.
    Add the marinated beef pieces and toss until lightly coated.
    Shake off excess cornstarch.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, beef broth, and cornstarch.
    Set aside.
  • Heat approximately 1–2 inches of neutral oil in a deep skillet to about 350°F (175°C).
    Cook the beef in small batches for approximately 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness, until browned and cooked to your desired level.
    Transfer to a wire rack.
    For a lighter stir-fried version: Use a wok with 1–2 tablespoons of oil and stir-fry the beef over high heat until browned.
  • Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
    Add a small amount of sesame oil.
    Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir the sauce again to redistribute the cornstarch.
    Pour it into the wok.
    Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 1–2 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
  • Add the cooked beef to the sauce.
    Toss quickly until all the pieces are evenly coated.
    Avoid cooking the beef in the sauce for too long because the coating can soften.
  • Sprinkle in half of the toasted sesame seeds and toss gently.
  • Transfer the Sesame Beef to a serving dish.
    Garnish with the remaining sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh chili if desired.
    Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Slice against the grain: This is one of the most important steps for tender beef.
  • Use flank steak or sirloin: Both work well for quick cooking.
  • Keep the slices thin: Thick pieces can become chewy.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the beef in batches for better browning.
  • Toast the sesame seeds: Toasting dramatically improves their aroma and flavor.
  • Prepare the sauce ahead: Stir-frying moves quickly once the wok is hot.
  • Don't overcook the sauce: It should remain glossy and pourable.
  • Serve immediately: The beef is best when freshly coated.

 

Keyword Asian beef stir fry, Chinese beef recipe, Chinese Sesame Beef, Homemade Takeout, Sesame Beef, Sticky Sesame Beef