Japanese Beef Yakitori

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade
   In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and half of the chopped green onions. Stir until the sugar is dissolved completely.
2. Marinate the beef
   Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Prepare for grilling
   Remove the soaked bamboo skewers from water. Thread 4-5 pieces of marinated beef onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece. Reserve the marinade for basting.
4. Make the yakitori sauce
   Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Grill the yakitori
   Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the beef skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, rotating occasionally until all sides are nicely browned and the beef is cooked to your desired doneness (about 8-10 minutes total for medium).
6. Baste and finish
   During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the skewers generously with the reduced yakitori sauce, turning to coat all sides. This creates a beautiful glaze and adds extra flavor.
7. Garnish and serve
   Transfer the grilled beef yakitori to a serving plate. Sprinkle with remaining chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and shichimi togarashi if using. Serve immediately while hot, with any remaining glaze on the side for dipping.