Tender and juicy wagyu beef cubes

Ingredients (serves 2):

• For the Beef:
  • 500g wagyu beef (cut into 2cm cubes)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin (or sweet rice wine)
  • 1 tbsp sake (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking
• For the Vegetables (optional):
  • 1 bell pepper (cut into 2cm pieces)
  • 1 small onion (cut into 2cm pieces)
  • 1 small zucchini (cut into 2cm pieces)
  • 1 small carrot (cut into 2cm pieces)
• For the Garnish:
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lemon wedges

Method:

Marinate the Beef:

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, salt, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix well.
2. Add the wagyu beef cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Prepare the Beef for Grilling:

1. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
2. If you are using vegetables, thread them onto separate skewers or mix them with the beef on the same skewers.

Grill the Beef:

1. Heat a grill pan or a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan.
2. Place the beef skewers on the grill pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the beef is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C).
3. If using vegetables, grill them alongside the beef skewers, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.

Serve:

1. Transfer the grilled beef skewers to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
3. Optionally, you can serve the beef skewers with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce, wasabi, or a simple mixture of soy sauce and lime juice.

Chef's Notes:

• Marinating Tips: Marinating the beef overnight will result in more tender and flavorful meat. However, if you are short on time, a minimum of 2 hours will still yield delicious results.
• Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your beef cubes and your preferred level of doneness. Cooking the beef to medium-rare will ensure it remains juicy and tender.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you like. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels are also great options.
• Storage: Leftover beef skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.