Dinner

Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

Name: Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; Green onions for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with a sweet and savory glaze, paired perfectly with the refreshing crunch of cucumber. This recipe delivers a burst of flavors in every bite, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal. Its simplicity allows you to whip it up easily, yet the taste is impressive enough to wow your family or guests.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 360
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 22 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 720 mg

Why Make This Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

This Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber is not only easy to prepare but it also delivers a delightful flavor and texture contrast. The sticky sauce brings a sweet richness, while the cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that brightens the dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a dish that’ll impress special guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce some Asian-inspired flavors to your menu.

How to Make Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

Ingredients:

1 pound beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Green onions for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the beef to soak up all the delicious flavors, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Cooking

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated beef. Stir-fry until the beef is cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This method gives the beef a nice sear while keeping it tender.
Step 3: Thickening

Sprinkle cornstarch over the beef and stir until the sauce thickens. This will enhance the sauce’s stickiness, making it cling beautifully to the beef.
Step 4: Finishing

Serve the sticky sesame beef over a bed of sliced cucumbers. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

How to Serve Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

This dish is best served immediately while the beef is hot and the cucumbers are crisp. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or mix it with other stir-fried vegetables for more nutrition and variety.

How to Store Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

If you have leftovers, store the sticky beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce to keep it from drying out. It’s best to store the cucumbers separately to maintain their crunch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber

For an even deeper flavor, marinate the beef overnight.
Use a sharp knife to slice the beef thinly; this helps it cook evenly and quickly.
If you’re in a hurry, consider using pre-cut beef strips available at many grocery stores.
Experiment with adding some vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Sesame Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for firm tofu or seitan for a plant-based version.
Noodle Salad: Toss the sticky sesame beef with cooked noodles and more fresh vegetables for a satisfying noodle salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken works well in this recipe. Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced thinly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with tamari, and ensure other ingredients, like cornstarch, are gluten-free.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just add the beef when you are ready to cook.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
You can use olive oil or canola oil, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to stir-fry bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli along with the beef for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion

Sticky Sesame Beef With Crunchy Cucumber is more than just a dish; it’s a flavorful experience that’s easy to achieve. Its perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, combined with the refreshing crunch of cucumbers, makes it a delightful option for any meal. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy crafting this delicious meal at home!