Ingredients
Scale
For the beef:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the sesame sauce:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for umami)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
For garnish:
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- 2–3 green onions, chopped
- Steamed rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the flank steak into thin strips, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness. Pat the beef dry with paper towels.
- Place the beef in a bowl and toss with the cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sesame Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), oyster sauce (if using), and water.
- Set the sauce mixture aside. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Sesame Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Combine the Beef and Sauce
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the Sesame Beef with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g