This recipe for honey sesame beef is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. It's a simple dish that brings together tender strips of beef, crisp snow peas, and a sticky honey sesame sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe, such as the skirt steak, snow peas, soy sauce, and sesame oil, can be found in the average supermarket. However, you might have to visit an Asian grocery store to find the rice vinegar and sesame seeds. These ingredients give the dish its distinct Asian flavor. Do not substitute the sesame oil or rice vinegar with other types of oil or vinegar, as they are essential to achieving the unique taste of this dish.
Ingredients for Honey Sesame Beef Recipe
skirt steak: This type of beef is ideal for quick cooking and has a robust flavor.
snow peas: These add a nice crunch and sweet flavor to the dish.
oil: Used to sauté the beef and vegetables.
corn starch: This helps to thicken the sauce.
soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
sesame oil: Provides a nutty flavor.
honey: Gives the dish its sweetness.
garlic: Enhances the flavor of the dish.
ketchup: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
rice vinegar: Gives the dish a slight tartness.
sesame seeds: Used as garnish, these add a nutty flavor and a slight crunch.
green onions: These are used as a garnish, adding a fresh and slightly spicy flavor.
One reader, Katherine Sotelo says:
This honey sesame beef recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the beef is so tender. The combination of honey and sesame creates a delightful glaze that's simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, savory-sweet dish.
Techniques Required for Honey Sesame Beef Recipe
How to whisk together the sauce: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, ketchup, and rice vinegar. Whisk until well combined.
How to thicken the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This mixture will be used to thicken the sauce later in the recipe.
How to sauté the beef and snow peas: In a large pan or skillet, drizzle oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the skirt steak and snow peas, and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until the beef is just cooked through.
How to bring the sauce to a boil: Once the beef and snow peas are cooked, pour the prepared sauce over the beef and snow peas in the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly.
How to thicken the sauce with cornstarch: After the sauce comes to a boil, stir in the cornstarch mixture. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
How to serve the honey sesame beef: Serve the honey sesame beef over steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
How To Make Honey Sesame Beef
You only need 20 minutes to whip up a flavorfully rich and sweet honey sesame beef dish! Enjoy tender bites of skirt steak and peas, all in one meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbsskirt steak,thinly sliced
- 1cupsnow peas
- 2tbspoil
- ½cupcold water
- 2tbspcorn starch
- ⅓cupsoy sauce,low sodium
- 2tspsesame oil
- 6tbsphoney
- 2tspgarlic,minced
- 2tbspketchup
- 1tbsprice vinegar
- sesame seeds,for topping
- green onions,chopped, for topping
Instructions
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Whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ketchup, and vinegar.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the water and corn starch.
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Drizzle a large pan or skillet with oil. Add beef and snow peas and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is just cooked through.
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Add the sauce, bring to a boil, and stir in corn starch mixture until thickened.
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Serve over steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 683.16kcal
- Fat: 38.42g
- Saturated Fat: 12.28g
- Trans Fat: 1.58g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.98g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.35g
- Carbohydrates: 38.95g
- Fiber: 1.00g
- Sugar: 28.76g
- Protein: 48.20g
- Cholesterol: 147.42mg
- Sodium: 1396.23mg
- Calcium: 38.13mg
- Potassium: 763.69mg
- Iron: 4.90mg
- Vitamin A: 24.51µg
- Vitamin C: 15.64mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey Sesame Beef
When cooking the skirt steak, it's important to not overcook it as it can become tough. To ensure it stays tender, cook it on high heat for a short amount of time. This method, known as searing, will also give the steak a nice brown crust. Additionally, when adding the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, make sure to stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey Sesame Beef
Plan ahead: Prep all your ingredients and tools before starting to cook to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While one component is cooking, use that time to prepare the next step of the recipe to save time.
Invest in quality tools: Having sharp knives and efficient kitchen gadgets can significantly speed up the cooking process.
Use kitchen shortcuts: Utilize pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and other time-saving ingredients to cut down on prep time.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes as you cook to minimize the post-cooking cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Honey Sesame Beef Recipe
skirt steak - Substitute with flank steak: Flank steak has a similar texture and flavor to skirt steak, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
snow peas - Substitute with snap peas: Snap peas have a similar crunch and sweetness to snow peas, making them a good alternative in this recipe.
corn starch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of corn starch, and it works well in this recipe.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos have a similar umami flavor to soy sauce and can be used as a lower-sodium alternative.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and caramelization to the dish, making it a good substitute for honey.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can add a rich tomato flavor without the sweetness of ketchup, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can provide a similar nutty crunch to the dish, serving as a substitute for sesame seeds.
Presenting Your Honey Sesame Beef Dish
Elevate the plating: Arrange the honey sesame beef in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures, such as the tender beef, crisp snow peas, and crunchy sesame seeds, to add depth and interest to the dish.
Emphasize color contrast: Utilize vibrant green snow peas and fresh green onions to create a striking contrast against the rich, caramelized honey sesame beef.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish is meticulously presented with attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Allow the plate to breathe by incorporating negative space, enhancing the visual impact of the dish and drawing attention to its key elements.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Consider adding a delicate drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of finely chopped chives to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Highlight the glaze: Showcase the glistening honey glaze by expertly coating the beef, creating a visually stunning and appetizing appearance.
Use high-quality serveware: Select elegant, minimalist serveware that complements the dish without overshadowing its visual appeal.
Garnish with edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and a delicate, floral aroma by garnishing the dish with edible flowers, such as chive blossoms or microgreens.
Create a focal point: Arrange the honey sesame beef as the focal point of the plate, drawing the eye to its enticing appearance and inviting presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile and essential tool for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
- Skillet or large pan: Used for sautéing the beef and snow peas.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients together.
- Mixing bowls: To combine and whisk the sauce and cornstarch mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Saucepan: To cook the rice.
- Steamer basket: For steaming the rice.
- Serving platter or plates: For presenting the finished dish.
- Tongs or spatula: For handling and flipping the beef and snow peas while cooking.
Storing and Freezing Your Honey Sesame Beef Dish
- Let the honey sesame beef cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the leftovers, transfer the cooled beef and sauce into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later. The honey sesame beef will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- When you're ready to enjoy the frozen leftovers, thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight. You can also use the defrost setting on your microwave if you're in a hurry.
- To reheat, transfer the thawed beef and sauce to a skillet or wok over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.
- If you find that the reheated honey sesame beef lacks some of its original flavor or texture, try adding a fresh squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions before serving. This will help brighten up the dish and restore some of its original freshness.
How To Reheat Honey Sesame Beef Leftovers
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover honey sesame beef:
Stovetop method: Place the leftover honey sesame beef in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to help rehydrate the sauce and prevent the beef from drying out. Stir occasionally until the beef is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to preserve the texture of the snow peas and ensures that the beef remains tender.
Microwave method: Transfer the leftover honey sesame beef to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the beef is heated through and the sauce is hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the beef to become tough and the vegetables to turn soggy.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover honey sesame beef in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat the dish in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method is ideal if you have a larger quantity of leftovers and want to reheat them all at once.
Steaming method: If you have a steamer basket or a steam function in your rice cooker, you can use this method to gently reheat the honey sesame beef. Place the leftovers in a heat-proof dish and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and the sauce is hot. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents the beef from becoming overcooked.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to stir the honey sesame beef well before serving to redistribute the sauce and ensure that the dish is evenly heated. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a small amount of water or beef broth to thin it out. Serve the reheated honey sesame beef over freshly steamed rice and garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds for a refreshed presentation.
Interesting Fact About Honey Sesame Beef
The honey sesame beef recipe is a delicious and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey with the tender skirt steak. The dish is complemented by the crunch of snow peas and the aromatic sesame seeds. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a popular choice for a satisfying meal. The combination of honey and sesame adds a unique and delightful flavor to the beef, creating a dish that is sure to please the taste buds of anyone who tries it.
Is Making Honey Sesame Beef at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this honey sesame beef recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as skirt steak, snow peas, and sesame oil, are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The dish provides a substantial amount of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for a family meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of flavor, simplicity, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly choice for a delicious and wholesome dinner.
Is Honey Sesame Beef Healthy or Unhealthy?
The honey sesame beef recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe calls for 2 lbs of skirt steak, which is a relatively fatty cut of beef. Consuming large amounts of red meat, especially fatty cuts, has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- The sauce contains a significant amount of honey (6 tbsp) and ketchup (2 tbsp), both of which are high in sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
- Soy sauce, even the low-sodium variety, still contains a fair amount of sodium. High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as snow peas, which are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, and reduce the overall amount of meat in the dish.
- Replace some of the honey with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract.
- Reduce the amount of soy sauce and ketchup, and opt for a low-sugar variety of ketchup.
- Increase the amount of snow peas and add other nutrient-dense vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Limit the amount of oil used in cooking, and consider using a healthier option like avocado oil or coconut oil.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Beef Recipe
This honey sesame beef recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich and luscious sauce that perfectly complements the tender skirt steak. The addition of snow peas provides a fresh and crunchy texture, while the garnish of sesame seeds and green onions adds a pop of color and a hint of nuttiness. This dish is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and beautiful presentation. It's a wonderful choice for a special dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Why trust this Honey Sesame Beef Recipe:
This honey sesame beef recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining succulent skirt steak with a delectable blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ketchup, and rice vinegar. The careful balance of flavors and textures creates a dish that's both satisfying and irresistible. With the addition of snow peas for a pop of freshness and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for a finishing touch, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the simple yet effective cooking method to deliver a dish that will surely impress your taste buds.
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