Teriyaki Ground Beef Skillet

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• cup finely chopped onion
• cup thick teriyaki sauce
• cup chopped water chestnuts, drained
• (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon sliced green onion

Directions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onions over medium heat. Crumble the beef as it cooks, and continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the teriyaki sauce, water chestnuts, pineapple, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onion over the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Tip

For a quicker meal, use frozen chopped onion and pre-made garlic and ginger pastes from the supermarket. These can usually be found in the produce section and save you time in preparation.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	303
Total Fat	14g (18%)
Saturated Fat	6g (28%)
Cholesterol	79mg (26%)
Sodium	2142mg (93%)
Total Carbohydrate	16g (6%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4%)
Total Sugars	13g
Protein	26g (52%)
Vitamin C	5mg (5%)
Calcium	42mg (3%)
Iron	3mg (18%)
Potassium	482mg (10%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The amount is based on available nutrient data.

Teriyaki Ground Beef Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan dinner that combines rich, savory, and slightly sweet teriyaki sauce with ground beef. The dish is flavored with fresh ginger, garlic, and pineapple, offering a balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Often served with a side of rice, its a popular choice for busy families looking for a tasty yet simple meal. But beyond the recipe itself, there are interesting cultural and culinary aspects to explore.

History and Origins

Teriyaki, the marinade used in this dish, is a popular cooking style that originates from Japan. The word "teriyaki" is derived from "teri" (meaning glaze or shine) and "yaki" (meaning grill or broil). Traditionally, it involves grilling or broiling meat that has been marinated in a sweet soy sauce-based sauce. Over the years, the style has become widely adapted and popularized outside of Japan, especially in the United States. This particular skillet version, using ground beef, is a modern take on the classic, making it quick and easy for weeknight meals.

Regional Variations

While teriyaki sauce itself is commonly associated with Japanese cuisine, regional variations can be found across different countries. In the U.S., teriyaki has been integrated into various dishes, often served as a topping or glaze. The use of ground beef in this recipe reflects a more American twist, as beef is not traditionally used in Japanese teriyaki dishes, which more commonly feature chicken, pork, or fish. In other parts of the world, teriyaki is also blended with local flavors, such as pineapple or tropical fruits, as seen in this dish, which adds an extra sweetness and acidity to the savory elements.

Distinctive Features

What sets Teriyaki Ground Beef Skillet apart from other similar dishes is the use of ground beef and the combination of sweet pineapple with crunchy water chestnuts. The rich and thick teriyaki sauce coats the beef, creating a sticky, glossy texture that is both satisfying and flavorful. While similar stir-fry or skillet dishes may use soy sauce or other savory sauces, the addition of pineapple, ginger, and sesame seeds adds a distinctive flavor profile that is unique to teriyaki-based recipes.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is perfect for casual dining and is often served in home kitchens across the globe, particularly in American households that enjoy Asian-inspired flavors. Its commonly accompanied by white rice, making it a balanced and filling meal. In restaurants, you might find it on the menu as part of an Asian-inspired or fusion cuisine offering. It's also a great option for meal prepping, as it holds up well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.

Interesting Facts

• Despite being deeply associated with Japanese cuisine, teriyaki sauce was popularized in the U.S. by Japanese-American chefs in the mid-20th century.
• Pineapple, commonly found in teriyaki dishes, was first introduced to Japan from the Americas in the 19th century and became a favored tropical addition to many Asian recipes.
• In traditional Japanese teriyaki, the sauce is often reduced to create a glaze, but in this recipe, it's used more as a marinade thats added directly to the skillet for a quick stir-fry effect.
• The addition of water chestnuts in this dish provides an unexpected crunch, balancing the soft texture of the beef and pineapple.

In conclusion, the Teriyaki Ground Beef Skillet is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the classic elements of Japanese teriyaki with a twist. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or a new dish to add to your meal rotation, this recipe is a great choice. With its sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, its sure to be a hit at your table.

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