Sesame Beef
Crispy, tender beef slices coated in a glossy, sweet and savory sesame sauce. This Chinese-American takeout classic is surprisingly easy to make at home and pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Marinate the Beef
- b.Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin, bite-sized strips, about 1/4-inch thick. For easier slicing, you can freeze the beef for 20-30 minutes until firm.
- c.In a medium bowl, whisk the egg white and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce until slightly frothy.
- d.Add the beef slices to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece.
- e.Sprinkle 1/4 cup of cornstarch over the beef and toss again until every piece is lightly and evenly dusted. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Mix the Sesame Sauce
- b.In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, packed brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, and chicken broth until the sugar is dissolved.
- c.In another tiny bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Set both the sauce and the slurry aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Beef
- b.Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it shimmers, or a small piece of beef sizzles immediately (around 350°F or 175°C).
- c.Carefully add half of the beef to the hot oil in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked beef and transfer it to a wire rack to drain. Repeat the process with the remaining beef.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Dish
- b.Carefully pour out all but 1 tablespoon of the hot oil from the skillet. Return the skillet to medium heat.
- c.Add the minced ginger and garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- d.Pour the prepared sesame sauce mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
- e.Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir and pour it into the simmering sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- f.Return the crispy beef to the skillet. Gently toss for about 30-60 seconds, just until all the pieces are coated in the sauce.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- c.If using, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- d.Serve immediately with steamed rice and a side of steamed broccoli or other vegetables for a complete meal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest beef, do not overcrowd the pan while frying. Working in batches keeps the oil temperature high.
- 2Draining the fried beef on a wire rack instead of paper towels prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- 3Have all your sauce ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking. The final steps happen very quickly.
- 4Toasting your own sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes enhances their nutty flavor.
- 5For a deeper flavor, add a splash of Shaoxing wine to the sauce mixture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This recipe works wonderfully with thinly sliced chicken breast or pork loin. Adjust frying time as needed.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Stir-fry some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or onions in the skillet after sautéing the garlic and ginger, before adding the sauce.
Sweetener ChangeSweetener Change
Substitute the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Extra SpicyExtra Spicy
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a significant heat boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in Heme Iron
This dish provides a significant amount of heme iron, a type that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Provides Key B Vitamins
Beef is a natural source of essential B vitamins, including B12 and B6, which are vital for energy production, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Sesame Beef contains approximately 580-650 calories, primarily from the beef, frying oil, and sugar in the sauce. This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.