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japanese thin sliced beef recipe

Japanese Thin Sliced Beef Recipe (Easy Gyudon Style)

A quick and classic Japanese thin sliced beef recipe made Gyudon style. Thin beef, sweet onions, and a rich soy-dashi sauce create a warm, comforting bowl you can make in minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Quick Meal
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb thin sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin; 1–2 mm thin)
  • 1 Large onion thin-sliced
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 cup dashi stock (or chicken/vegetable broth)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tbsp mirin (optional)
  • 1 tbsp oil (neutral or sesame)
Optional Toppings
  • 1 soft boiled egg
  • 2 tbsp green onions sliced
  • 1 tbsp pickled ginger beni shoga
  • Chili flakes to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Sharp knife
  • 1 Medium pot
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Measuring cups/spoons
  • 1 Rice cooker or pot for rice (optional)

Method
 

Make the Sauce
  1. Mix soy sauce, sugar, dashi, mirin, and grated ginger in a bowl.
Cook the Onions
  1. Add sliced onions to a pot. Pour the sauce over them. Cook for 4–6 minutes on medium heat until soft and fragrant.
Add the Beef
  1. Place the thin sliced beef into the pot. Stir gently to coat the pieces. Cook for 2–3 minutes only.
Simmer Briefly
  1. Let the beef and onions simmer for 2–3 more minutes to blend the flavors and thicken the broth slightly.
Serve
  1. Spoon the beef and onions over hot rice. Add extra sauce for a richer bowl. Top with a soft egg or green onions if you like.

Notes

  • Freeze beef for 20–25 minutes before slicing for cleaner, thinner cuts.
  • Dashi gives the most authentic flavor, but broth works well too.
  • Do not overcook the beef — thin slices turn firm very fast.
  • Add mushrooms or cabbage for a vegetable-packed variation.