This Beef Stir Fry is a quick and colorful dish packed with tender strips of beef and fresh veggies like bell peppers and broccoli. It’s a fantastic dinner idea for busy nights!
You can whip it up in just one pan, which means less cleanup! I like to serve it over rice or noodles. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak works best as they’re tender and flavorful when sliced thinly against the grain. You can substitute with chicken, pork, or tofu for a lighter option.
Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, choose tamari. Oyster sauce adds a depth of flavor; you can skip it or use mushroom sauce instead. Hoisin sauce gives sweetness but isn’t necessary!
Vegetables: Bell peppers and broccoli are classic choices. Feel free to replace them with carrots, bok choy, or any seasonal veggies you like for variety.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best! If you’re short on time, use ground ginger and garlic powder, but fresh gives a vibrant taste.
How Do I Properly Marinate and Stir-Fry the Beef?
Marinating the beef enhances the flavor and tenderness. Mix the sauces, sesame oil, and cornstarch with the beef, and let it sit. This helps the meat soak up those yummy flavors.
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender. If it’s tough, freeze it for 15 minutes first for easier slicing.
- When stir-frying, ensure your pan is hot for a good sear. Cook the beef until browned but not fully done to avoid overcooking later.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the beef instead of searing. Stir-fry in batches if necessary.
How to Make a Delicious Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For Stir-Frying:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir frying)
- 1 bell pepper (red or mixed colors), thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beef stir fry recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time for marinating the beef and chopping the vegetables, followed by around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to create a vibrant and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix everything well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but still slightly undercooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced onions, bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and colorful.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Toss everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly. Be sure to mix it well so every bit of deliciousness is coated!
6. Final Touches:
Season the stir fry with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Then, garnish with the sliced green onions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that added crunch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beef stir fry hot, ideally over steamed rice or alongside noodles. Enjoy this flavorful and colorful dish with friends or family!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first. The easiest way to do this is by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the cold water method: seal the beef in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour, changing the water every 30 minutes.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can definitely customize the vegetables! If you don’t have bell peppers or broccoli, consider using carrots, zucchini, or baby corn. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. Also, you can add mushrooms or bok choy for additional flavor and texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili paste to the stir-fry along with the garlic and ginger. You can also serve it with a drizzle of sriracha on top for an extra kick!
