Japanese leeks, also known as "negi" in Japanese, are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. These long, slender green onions have a mild onion flavor with a hint of sweetness, making them perfect for adding depth to dishes without overpowering other flavors. Here is a delicious and easy recipe that will showcase the delicious flavor of Japanese leeks.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This will be the marinade for the beef.
Place the thinly sliced beef in a large Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Close the bag and massage the marinade into the beef. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it is cooked through.
Add the thinly sliced Japanese leeks to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the leeks are tender.
Serve the stir-fry over a bed of rice and enjoy!
This stir-fry is a great way to showcase the delicious flavor of Japanese leeks. The combination of the tender, marinated beef and the slightly sweet and oniony flavor of the leeks is a match made in heaven. This dish is also incredibly versatile – feel free to add in other vegetables or protein of your choice for a personalized twist on this classic Japanese dish.
So next time you see some fresh, vibrant Japanese leeks at the market, give this recipe a try and taste the deliciousness for yourself!
