Beef Yakitori

Instructions

1. Prepare the yakitori sauce
   In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Divide the sauce in half - one portion for basting while cooking and one for serving.
2. Marinate the beef
   Place beef cubes in a bowl and add 1/4 cup of the yakitori sauce. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Prepare the skewers
   If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and onion. Each skewer should have about 4-5 pieces of beef.
4. Preheat the grill
   Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the yakitori
   Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally. Brush with the reserved basting sauce several times during cooking. The beef should be nicely browned on the outside and medium-rare to medium on the inside.
6. Rest and garnish
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
7. Serve
   Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle with some of the reserved serving sauce. Serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.