BBQ Beef from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue features tender, marinated slices of savory beef glazed with a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce, served over a bed of steamed white rice and garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a flavorful Hawaiian-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Sauce brush
- Rice cooker or pot
- Serving plate or bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl (for sesame seeds)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) beef (ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (Hawaiian-style or sweet & smoky)
- 3 cups steamed white rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Choose ribeye or sirloin for the beef as these cuts offer the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor when thinly sliced for marinating. Soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice create a sweet and savory marinade essential to achieving the authentic Hawaiian barbecue taste. Using Hawaiian-style or sweet and smoky barbecue sauce elevates the glaze, locking in that signature smoky flavor while adding a caramelized finish. Preparing your rice with a cooker or pot ensures a fluffy, consistent base that complements the beef's rich marinade. Your homemade BBQ Beef from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue copycat menu delivers a perfectly balanced, flavorful Hawaiian-inspired meal right at home.
Instructions
- Thinly slice the beef if not already done.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, oyster sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade and mix well.
- Cover and marinate the beef in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Grill the marinated beef slices, turning with tongs, until cooked through and slightly caramelized (2-3 minutes per side).
- Brush cooked beef with barbecue sauce on both sides; grill for an additional 1 minute per side to glaze.
- Prepare steamed white rice using a rice cooker or pot.
- Arrange rice on serving plates or bowls.
- Place grilled BBQ beef over the rice.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the beef.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
BBQ Beef from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue copycat menu captures the signature balance of savory and sweet flavors with tender beef marinated in a blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar. You can substitute ribeye or sirloin with flank steak or skirt steak for a leaner option that still absorbs the marinade well. If you don't have access to Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce, a mix of hoisin sauce and a touch of honey can mimic the sweet and smoky profile. Using a grill pan indoors works perfectly if outdoor grilling is not an option, ensuring that the beef gets a nice sear without sacrificing convenience. Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before garnishing to enhance their nutty flavor and aroma.
Tips
Ensure the beef slices are uniformly thin to allow quick, even cooking and proper absorption of the marinade. You should marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness; longer marination is possible but avoid exceeding 24 hours. When grilling, preheat your grill or grill pan thoroughly and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking and achieve caramelization. Always brush the barbecue sauce on both sides during the final grilling step to create a glossy, smoky glaze without burning.
Nutritions
BBQ Beef from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue provides a rich source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth, with ribeye or sirloin cuts offering high-quality amino acids. The marinade ingredients, including soy sauce and pineapple juice, contribute antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and B-complex, while brown sugar adds a small amount of carbohydrates for quick energy. Sesame oil and seeds supply healthy fats and minerals such as calcium and magnesium, supporting heart and bone health. You can enjoy a balanced combination of macronutrients with this meal, including protein, carbs from steamed white rice, and healthy fats, promoting sustained energy and nourishment.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ beef in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Keep the beef separate from steamed rice to prevent sogginess, and consume within 3-4 days. When reheating, use a microwave or skillet to warm the beef thoroughly, ensuring your meal retains its smoky, sweet flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the beef with thinly sliced pork or chicken for a different protein option while keeping the smoky barbecue flavor intact. For a spicier twist, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. If you prefer a smokier aroma, use a charcoal grill instead of a grill pan, or add a small amount of liquid smoke to the marinade. To make the dish gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari and ensure your barbecue sauce does not contain gluten-based ingredients.
Allergies
BBQ Beef from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue contains common allergens such as soy (soy sauce), shellfish (oyster sauce), and sesame seeds, which could trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies to these ingredients, it's important to verify the specific preparation and consider alternatives to avoid adverse effects. Your safety is paramount, so consulting ingredient labels or restaurant staff about potential cross-contamination is recommended.
Why this recipe?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue's BBQ Beef menu is beloved for its tender, marinated beef cooked to perfection with a unique blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The dish offers a satisfying balance of rich, smoky taste and succulent texture that appeals to a wide range of palates. You'll find that making a copycat version at home is worth it because it allows you to customize the seasoning and enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without any additives. Recreating this iconic Hawaiian barbecue dish lets you bring a taste of the islands directly to your kitchen.