Beef Bowls

Sesame Soy Beef Tenderloin Quinoa Bowl

Seared tenderloin strips in tamari-sesame sauce with scallions and cucumber over tri-color quinoa.

Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Makes
4 bowls
Sesame Soy Beef Tenderloin Quinoa Bowl with tri-color quinoa, sesame beef, cucumber, scallions and sesame seeds in a white porcelain bowl

Tenderloin tips, the narrow end of the tenderloin, are often sold cheaper than full medallions and are ideal for a quick stir-fry. A simple tamari, garlic and sesame sauce lets the tender beef shine.

Why this recipe works

Tenderloin needs only a minute in a hot pan; any longer and it loses the tenderness that makes it worth buying. A light sauce keeps the focus on the beef.

Ingredient notes

Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce usually made without wheat; check the label for gluten-free.

Common mistakes

  • Cooking tenderloin to well done.
  • Adding the garlic at high heat, which burns it.

What to serve with it

Steamed edamame or broccoli.

Meal prep

Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.

More bowls like this

Cooking tips

Slice the beef evenly so it cooks evenly. Have everything ready before you start.

Swaps and variations

Use sirloin strips. Use brown rice instead of quinoa.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

Recipe

Sesame Soy Beef Tenderloin Quinoa Bowl

Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Makes
4 bowls

Ingredients

4 servings

You’ll need: large skillet; medium saucepan with lid

Method

  1. Cook the quinoa: bring the quinoa and water to a boil, cover and simmer on low 15 minutes, rest 5 minutes.

  2. Whisk the tamari, rice vinegar, honey and sesame oil.

  3. Heat the neutral oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the beef in two batches, 1 to 2 minutes, until browned outside and pink inside.

  4. Lower the heat to medium, return the beef, add the garlic and stir 30 seconds.

  5. Add the sauce and most of the scallions and toss 30 seconds.

  6. Divide the quinoa among 4 bowls, add the beef and cucumber and sprinkle with sesame seeds and the remaining scallions.

Questions

What are tenderloin tips?

The thin end pieces of beef tenderloin, tender and good for quick cooking.

Can I use soy sauce?

Yes, but it contains wheat.

Comments

Made it? Tell us how it went

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