This Sizzling Sesame Beef Stir-Fry is a feast for the senses—tender slices of beef seared to perfection, tossed with caramelized onions, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that clings to every bite. Finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, this dish delivers restaurant-style flavor in a home-cooked skillet. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, making it a weeknight favorite or a centerpiece for family dinners.
The secret lies in the high-heat stir-fry technique and the balance of flavors: salty soy, sweet undertones, aromatic garlic and ginger, and the nutty crunch of sesame. Hassan, this one’s perfect for those lively kitchen moments—your son sneaking a bite straight from the pan, your sister admiring the glossy finish, and your husband quietly guarding the last spoonful like it’s gold.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Beef Marinade:
- 500g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with water to thicken sauce)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Spring onions or coriander for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Mix well and let marinate for 20–30 minutes.
- This helps tenderize the meat and gives it a silky texture when cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, sugar, and water.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers.
- Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened and caramelized.
- Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- Add remaining oil to the pan.
- Add marinated beef in a single layer and let sear for 1 minute before stirring.
- Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine & Finish:
- Return vegetables to the pan.
- Pour in the sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with spring onions or coriander.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps.