Yakiniku Don with Teriyaki Glaze

This Yakiniku Don features tender marinated beef grilled to perfection, served over a bed of fluffy rice, and topped with a savory teriyaki glaze. The dish is elevated with the addition of fresh vegetables and a hint of sesame, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's a hearty meal that respects traditional Japanese cuisine while introducing a creative twist with the glaze.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red and green)
• 1/2 cup sliced onion
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Pickled ginger for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to create a marinade.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
4. Grill the beef for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked to desired doneness. Remove from heat.
5. In the same pan, add bell peppers and onion, cooking until just tender, about 3 minutes.
6. Prepare the teriyaki glaze by simmering the remaining marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. To assemble, place a serving of rice in a bowl, top with grilled beef, sautéed vegetables, and drizzle with teriyaki glaze.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger, if desired.