Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Seared Beef Rolls, or Beef Negimaki, are a popular Japanese dish where thin slices of beef are wrapped around green onions (scallions), asparagus, or other vegetables and then seared. These rolls are basted with a savory soy-based sauce for an extra burst of umami. The result is a delicious appetizer or main dish that’s both flavorful and visually impressive, yet surprisingly easy to make. They’re perfect for serving at dinner parties or as part of a special meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef Rolls:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, very thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 6-8 green onions (scallions), trimmed to the length of the beef slices
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Slice the Beef: If your beef is not pre-sliced, place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly, then use a sharp knife to slice it as thin as possible. You want pieces that are about 4-5 inches long.
• Tenderize: Lightly pound each beef slice using a meat mallet to ensure even thickness.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Beef Rolls

• Lay a slice of beef flat on a clean surface. Place 1 or 2 pieces of green onion (scallion) at one end of the beef slice. Roll the beef tightly around the green onion, and secure with a toothpick or kitchen twine to keep it in place. Repeat with the remaining beef slices and green onions.

4. Sear the Beef Rolls

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef rolls and sear them for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned on all sides. This will take about 4-5 minutes in total.

5. Glaze the Rolls

• Once the beef rolls are seared, lower the heat to medium and pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Let the rolls cook in the sauce, turning occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes or until the sauce thickens and coats the beef rolls. Be careful not to let the sauce burn.

6. Serve

• Remove the beef rolls from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine.
• Slice each roll into bite-sized pieces and serve them drizzled with the thickened sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Notes

• Beef Slices: Ask your butcher for very thinly sliced beef, similar to what is used for shabu-shabu or hot pot. If slicing at home, partially freeze the meat first—it makes it easier to slice thinly.
• Sauce Thickness: If the sauce thickens too much, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it up. You want the sauce to be syrupy but not overly sticky.
• Vegetable Alternatives: You can also use asparagus, bell pepper strips, or even blanched carrots as the filling instead of green onions.

Variations

• Cheese-Stuffed Beef Rolls: Add a thin slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese along with the green onion for an extra rich and savory flavor.
• Spicy Beef Rolls: Add a few thin slices of fresh chili pepper to the filling for some heat, or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the rolls before searing.
• Vegetarian Option: Use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant in place of the beef. Fill with a mix of green onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and use the same glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these beef rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the beef rolls ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, sear them and finish with the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover beef rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent the sauce from burning.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced pork or even chicken breast can be used as an alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with seared beef rolls?

These beef rolls pair well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also work well as a side dish for a larger Japanese-inspired meal.

Can I grill the beef rolls instead of searing them in a skillet?

Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Grill the rolls over medium heat, turning frequently, until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Brush with the sauce during the final few minutes of cooking.

Seared Beef Rolls (Beef Negimaki) are a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. With tender beef wrapped around fresh green onions and coated in a savory glaze, these rolls are full of flavor and look beautiful on the plate.

Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a larger meal, these seared beef rolls are sure to delight. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a classic taste of Japanese-inspired cuisine at home!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!