Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku features thinly sliced, tender beef grilled to perfection, showcasing a juicy, smoky flavor with a slight char, served with fresh dipping sauces that enhance its savory richness.
Equipments
- Grill (Tabletop or built-in charcoal/gas grill)
- Tongs
- Slicing knife
- Cutting board
- Serving plates
- Dipping sauce bowls
- Meat marinade brush (optional)
- Tray for raw beef
- Heat-resistant gloves (optional)
- Ventilation system or exhaust fan (if indoors)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef ribeye
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sake
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 green onions
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Ponzu sauce
- Goma (sesame) dipping sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Shiso leaves (optional)
- Daikon radish (optional)
Thinly sliced beef ribeye is essential for achieving the tender, quick-cooking texture characteristic of Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku. Marinating the beef with a balanced mix of soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil enhances its savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. Fresh ingredients like green onions, garlic, and toasted sesame seeds add aromatic depth, while dipping sauces such as ponzu and goma complement the meat's smoky, juicy taste. Optional garnishes like shiso leaves and daikon radish provide refreshing contrasts that enhance the overall dish. When preparing your own Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku copycat menu, focus on maintaining authentic seasoning and slicing techniques to replicate the restaurant's signature experience.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Prepare the grill and preheat to high heat.
- Slice beef ribeye thinly if not pre-sliced.
- Arrange sliced beef on a tray.
- Mince green onions and garlic.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake, and sesame oil to make marinade.
- Add minced green onions, garlic, and toasted sesame seeds to marinade.
- Lightly brush or drizzle marinade over sliced beef (optional; traditional Yaki-Shabu is often un-marinated).
- Prepare dipping sauces (ponzu and goma) in individual bowls.
- Arrange lemon wedges, shiso leaves, and grated daikon on serving plates.
- Season beef slices with sea salt and black pepper.
- Using tongs, grill beef slices for 10–20 seconds per side until just cooked and slightly charred.
- Transfer grilled beef to serving plates.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces, lemon wedges, and garnishes.
- Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Substitution
Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku copycat menu replicates the tender, thinly sliced ribeye grilled to smoky perfection and paired with savory dipping sauces like ponzu and goma. If thinly sliced ribeye is unavailable, thin cuts of sirloin or flank steak can be used as suitable substitutes, maintaining tenderness when grilled briefly over high heat. Soy sauce in the marinade can be replaced with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free options without compromising umami flavor. When a grill is not accessible, a hot cast iron skillet effectively achieves a similar char and juicy texture for the beef slices. Your dipping sauces can be customized by adding fresh citrus juice or grated daikon to enhance acidity and freshness as desired.
Tips
Ensure your grill is preheated to high heat before placing the thinly sliced beef ribeye to achieve that perfect sear and smoky flavor. Remember to season the beef lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper just before grilling to enhance its natural taste. Grill the beef slices quickly--between 10 to 20 seconds per side--to maintain tenderness and prevent overcooking. Serve your Yaki-Shabu immediately with fresh ponzu and goma dipping sauces along with lemon wedges and optional garnishes like shiso leaves and grated daikon for authentic flavor balance.
Nutritions
Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku provides a rich source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. The ribeye cut offers beneficial amounts of iron and zinc, supporting immune function and energy metabolism. Sesame oil and seeds contribute healthy fats and antioxidants, while the accompanying dipping sauces add vitamin C and enzymes that aid digestion. Your balanced meal delivers savory satisfaction alongside important nutrients for overall wellness.
Storage
Store any leftover Yaki-Shabu Beef wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air exposure and maintain its moisture. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) for up to 2 days to ensure freshness and food safety. When reheating, gently warm the beef on a grill or skillet over low heat to preserve its tender texture and smoky flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ribeye for thinly sliced sirloin or brisket to alter the beef's tenderness and flavor profile. For a richer taste, marinate your beef longer, up to 30 minutes, using ingredients like grated ginger or miso paste. If you prefer a smokier essence, opt for a charcoal grill over gas or tabletop models. Consider serving with a variation of dipping sauces such as spicy chili oil or a citrus-based yuzu sauce for an aromatic twist.
Allergies
Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku contains common allergens such as soy from soy sauce and ponzu sauce, sesame from sesame oil and goma dipping sauce, and potential alcohol traces in mirin and sake. If you have allergies to sesame, soy, or sulfites found in some sake and mirin, it's important to inform your server or prepare alternatives. Your sensitivity to these ingredients can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe, so caution is advised when enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Yaki-Shabu Beef from Gyu-Kaku restaurant is celebrated for its tender, thinly sliced premium Wagyu beef that grills quickly, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience rich in umami flavors. The carefully balanced marinade enhances the natural taste without overpowering the high-quality beef, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. You'll appreciate the sensory delight of grilling your own beef to perfection, replicating the authentic Japanese yakiniku style at home. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality Yaki-Shabu, bringing the unique culinary experience right to your kitchen.