Beef Tataki

Beef Tataki is a tasty Japanese dish that's super easy to make. It's all about seared beef that's thinly sliced and served with a tangy sauce. This dish is perfect for when you want to impress your friends or just enjoy some good beef in a new way. The beef is seared quickly, keeping the inside rare, which makes it really tender.

Learn how to sear, slice, and serve this Japanese delicacy like a pro. Continue reading to discover the best cuts and perfect searing techniques needed to master the art of beef tataki.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

You will love this simple beef tataki recipe because it works on a variety of levels.

To begin with, it is a quick and easy recipe that packs alot of punch by using simple ingredients. All it takes is 10 minutes of your time and 6 ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, and if not, you've likely got a perfectly acceptable substitute. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy, right?!

Another thing that you will love about this beef tataki recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you need a quick appetizer idea to impress your dinner guests with, or a light dinner dish to pair with a salad, this simple beef tataki will definitely fit the bill for any occasion.

If your still not convinced to try making your own authentic Japanese beef tataki, then maybe it's because you don't like or want something that is on the ingredient list. If that's the case, simply change it! This easy beef tataki recipe is easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences. If that means making it a vegan tataki, or simply adding more spice to the sauce, this authentic beef tataki comes with plenty of suggestions for alternative ingredients to use giving you the power to make a tataki that is right for you.

Ingredients

Soy Sauce:

Soy sauce is a key component of beef tataki sauce, imparting a rich umami flavor and savory depth to the dish. However, for those with soy allergies or preferences, alternatives such as tamari or coconut aminos can be used instead.

Sesame Oil:

Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty aroma and flavor to your beef tataki sauce, enhancing its overall taste profile. However, if sesame oil is unavailable or undesirable, alternatives like olive oil or grapeseed oil can be used as substitutes. These oils offer a neutral flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients

Garlic:

While this recipe calls for fresh minced garlic, you can also use garlic powder in the absence of fresh. Additionally, ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, chives, and sesame seeds can also be used to create flavor and texture in your beef tataki sauce.

Olive Oil:

This beef tataki recipe uses olive oil to sear the tenderloin because it has a relatively high smoke point which means it can withstand the high heat needed for searing without burning or imparting an undesirable flavor to the beef. However, if olive oil is not available or preferred, canola oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, and vegetable oil will also work as they too have high smoke points.

Beef Tenderloin:

When it comes to an authentic beef tataki recipe, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. The best cuts of beef for tataki are those that are tender and well-marbled, such as tenderloin, sirloin, or ribeye. For those seeking variations of this beef tataki recipe, options like tuna tataki, mushroom tataki, or eggplant tataki provide delicious alternatives.

Green Onions:

Green onions add a fresh and vibrant flavor to this quick and easy beef tataki, complementing the rich and savory taste of the beef and enhancing the visual appeal of the dish by adding a pop of color. In addition to green onions, other ingredients can be used to top beef tataki, such as sesame seeds, shredded nori (seaweed), citrus zest, microgreens, or grated diakon. By experimenting with different toppings and garnishes, you can customize the dish and make your beef tataki your way.

How to Make Beef Tataki

Step One: 

Combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic in a bowl and stir to incorporate. This sauce is going to top your seared beef tataki later, so set it aside for now.

Step Two: 

Heat your oil in a saucepan over high heat. The pan is ready when water droplets skim its surface.

Step Three: 

Carefully lay the beef tenderloin in the pan to sear quickly. It will only take approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side for a golden, carmelized crust to form on the outside of your beef.

Step Four:

Slice the beef tataki thinly and against the grain. This traps more of the juices in the meat and creates a more flavorful bite. 

Step Five:

Arrange this simple beef tataki neatly on a serving platter or individual plates and top it with your sauce prior to serving.

Step Six: 

Top with chopped fresh green onions, serve promptly following slicing, and enjoy!

Tips

• When cooking your tenderloin, sear the beef quickly over high heat to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside rare to medium-rare. This step is what gives Japanese beef tataki its signature flavor and texture.
• Ensure you chill your seared beef tataki in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before you slice it. This makes it easier to slice thinly and ensures a uniform texture throughout.
• Serve the beef tataki immediately after slicing to preserve its freshness and texture. It's best enjoyed right after preparation.

What to Serve With Beef Tataki

It's essential to complement the rich flavors of your simple beef tataki with carefully chosen accompaniments. Start with a crunchy cucumber salad or a fresh seaweed salad to add a refreshing contrast to the savory beef. Consider including pickled vegetables like ginger, radishes, or turnips to provide a tangy and crunchy element that balances the dish's richness.

Additionally, serve a bowl of steamed rice to help soak up any flavorful sauces or juices. For a complete dining experience, pair beef tataki with a selection of dipping sauces like tsuyu sauce, Chinese curry sauce, or sriracha aioli, allowing guests to customize each bite according to their preferences.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for tataki?

While fresh beef is recommended for the best beef tataki, you can use partially thawed frozen beef if needed. However, it's essential to ensure that the beef is completely thawed before searing to achieve an even cook.

Can I prepare beef tataki ahead of time?

You can sear the beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it's best to slice and serve your seared beef tataki appetizer immediately after slicing.

How long can leftover beef tataki be kept fresh?

Leftover beef tataki can typically be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. If needed, it can be frozen for long-term storage. Simply place your seared beef tataki in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container to be stored for as long as 2 months.

More Beef Recipes

If you love quick and easy recipes like this beef tataki, then you need to check out this collection of our favorite beef recipes. This curated collection promises to satisfy every pallet and consider every occasion with mouthwatering beef recipes.

Beef Satay

Beef Bourguignon

Beef Wellington

Beef Tacos