Perfect Side Dishes to Accompany Beef Teriyaki
Beef teriyaki is a delicious and popular dish, often served with side dishes to complement its rich and savory flavors. Whether you are cooking at home or in a restaurant, the right side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. In this article, we will explore various side dishes that pair well with beef teriyaki, including a popular choice that takes it up a notch.
1. Starch Noodles
Starch noodles, such as ramen, are a great option for complementing the umami flavors of beef teriyaki. Ramen noodles, with their soft and chewy texture, can absorb the sauce well, making them a perfect choice. If you want to take your dish to the next level, consider making aglio e olio spaghetti. This Italian pasta dish features spaghetti tossed with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley. The combination of soy sauce-based teriyaki and the garlicky, olive-oil infused spaghetti creates an exciting and harmonious flavor profile.
2. Steamed White Rice with Garlic Chips
Steamed white rice is a classic side dish that never fails to complement any main course. Its simple and mild flavor allows the beef teriyaki to shine through. For an extra touch, you can garnish the rice with some garlic chips. Just toss some fresh garlic cloves in a bit of olive oil and roast them until crispy. These garlic chips add a delightful crunch and intensified garlic flavor to the rice, making it a delicious and easy side dish to prepare.
3. Cabbage Slaw
Cabbage slaw is another fantastic side dish to serve with beef teriyaki. It provides a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the teriyaki. You can make a simple cabbage slaw by shredding green or Napa cabbage, and mixing it with a dressing of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and a touch of wasabi. The tangy and slightly sweet dressing complements the teriyaki while refreshing the palate. Cabbage slaw also adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heavy flavors of the teriyaki.
4. My Personal Favorite: Beets with Yuzu Dressing
While many classic side dishes pair well with beef teriyaki, my personal favorite is beets with a yuzu dressing. Beets, with their naturally sweet and earthy flavor, can stand up to the complexity of teriyaki sauce. Roast or grill the beets until they are tender, then peel and slice them. Toss the sliced beets with a dressing made from yuzu juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar. The acidity of the yuzu provides a vibrant and bright counterpoint to the richness of the teriyaki, creating a harmonious and flavorful balance. This side dish not only adds a luxurious touch but also provides a pleasant visual contrast to the dish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience when enjoying beef teriyaki. Whether you opt for the traditional choices like steamed white rice, or you aim to take your dish to the next level with aglio e olio spaghetti or beets with yuzu dressing, the key is to select sides that complement and enhance the main dish. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing and enhance the harmony of flavors. Happy cooking!