This beef stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy beef strips stir-fried with onions, bell peppers, and a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and beef broth. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Recipe Variations:
- Spicy Beef Stir-Fry:
- Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for extra heat.
- Teriyaki-Style Stir-Fry:
- Substitute the hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter profile.
- Low-Carb Version:
- Serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried zucchini noodles instead of rice.
- Extra Crunch:
- Add sliced carrots, water chestnuts, or snap peas for more texture.
- Gluten-Free Option:
- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Additional Tips:
✔ Slice Beef Thinly:
- Cutting against the grain helps keep the beef tender.
✔ Use High Heat:
- Stir-frying works best with high heat for a quick sear on the beef.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Vegetables:
- They should be slightly crisp for the best texture.
✔ Make Ahead:
- The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over steamed white or brown rice.
- Pair with garlic noodles or fried rice.
- Enjoy with a side of Asian cucumber salad or spring rolls.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 18g