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Air Fryer Beef Teriyaki Skewers - Quick, Juicy, and Packed With Flavor

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced against the grain into 1-inch wide, 1/4–1/2-inch thick strips
  • Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water 20–30 minutes)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (or substitute 1 tablespoon rice vinegar + 1 tablespoon water)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (adds shine and thickness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry, optional for thicker glaze)
  • 1–2 tablespoons water to thin, if needed
  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions
  • Steamed rice or noodles
  • Optional veggies: bell peppers, red onion, or pineapple chunks for the skewers

Method
 

  1. Prep the beef: Pat the steak dry. Slice into long, even strips against the grain, about 1/4–1/2 inch thick. This keeps the meat tender and helps it cook evenly in the air fryer.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Reserve 1/4 cup of this mixture in a small saucepan for glazing later.
  3. Marinate: Add the beef strips to the remaining marinade, toss to coat, and cover. Marinate at least 30 minutes in the fridge, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Soak the skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Thread the skewers: Thread the marinated beef onto skewers, weaving each strip back and forth for even cooking. If adding peppers, onions, or pineapple, alternate them with the beef. Let excess marinade drip off.
  6. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly oil the air fryer basket or use a liner designed for air fryers.
  7. Cook the skewers: Arrange in a single layer with space between them. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until edges are caramelized and internal temp reaches about 135–140°F for medium.
  8. Thicken the glaze (optional but great): Bring the reserved marinade to a simmer in the small saucepan. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes, until glossy and thick. If too thick, add a splash of water.
  9. Glaze and garnish: Brush the cooked skewers with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
  10. Serve: Plate over steamed rice or noodles with extra sauce on the side. Add a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for balance.