Beef Teriyaki with Cucumber Salsa: A Quick and Light Dish
Overview
Beef Teriyaki with Cucumber Salsa is a delightful recipe that embodies the light and fresh flavors of Japanese cuisine, offering a low-fat option while still satisfying your meat cravings. This dish features lean cuts of beef, marinated to perfection, and paired with a refreshing cucumber salsa that can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The marinade infuses the beef with a savory richness, while the vibrant salsa adds a crisp, refreshing contrast. Perfectly balanced and quick to prepare, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinade time)
- Servings: 2
- Category: Steak
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Keywords: Peppers, Vegetable, Meat, Asian, Kosher, Summer, Quick Meals
Description
This light beef dish stands out for its lean cut of meat, which can be enjoyed in smaller serving sizes. The quick preparation process allows you to whip it up in no time, especially once the steak has marinated. The cucumber salsa not only serves as a refreshing accompaniment but can also be made a day in advance, enhancing the flavors. For a family-friendly version, flank steak is recommended, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sherry wine | 40 ml |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Fresh ginger | 2 teaspoons, grated |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Lebanese cucumber | 2, peeled and diced into 1 cm cubes |
| Red capsicum (bell pepper) | 1, sliced into strips |
| Spring onions | 1/2 bunch, sliced diagonally |
| Sugar (for salsa) | 2 tablespoons |
| Roasted sesame seeds | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 179.3 |
| Total Fat | 2.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 1370.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 23.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 13.8 g |
| Protein | 5.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sherry wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sugar to create the marinade.
-
Marinate the Steak: Immerse the selected cut of steak in the marinade, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. For the best results, consider marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight.
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Make the Cucumber Salsa: While the steak is marinating, prepare the cucumber salsa. Begin by peeling the Lebanese cucumber and dicing it into 1 cm cubes. Next, slice the red capsicum into strips, then crosswise to match the size of the cucumber cubes. Finally, slice the spring onions on a diagonal, ensuring to include some of the green parts for color and flavor. Combine all these ingredients in a salad bowl and set aside.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar (2 tablespoons), vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and squeeze in fresh lemon juice, allowing the dressing to cool slightly before pouring it over the prepared salsa.
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Cook the Beef: After marinating, remove the steak from the marinade (reserving the marinade for later). Cook the beef in a skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat to your desired level of doneness. For a perfect rare finish, aim for about 3–4 minutes per side.
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Rest and Slice the Steak: Once cooked, allow the steak to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the steak into thin strips, maintaining the original shape of the steak.
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Prepare the Marinade Sauce: To ensure food safety, boil the reserved marinade for 3 minutes to eliminate any bacteria.
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Serve: Plate the sliced steak on a bed of plain rice, then drizzle with the boiled marinade. Top generously with the cucumber salsa and sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Final Touches
Beef Teriyaki with Cucumber Salsa is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines texture, flavor, and visual appeal. The marinade offers a salty, sweet balance that beautifully complements the tender beef, while the cucumber salsa adds a bright freshness. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Enjoy this delightful culinary journey to Japan with a recipe that emphasizes both ease and flavor, making it perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of the exotic to their home kitchen!
