Stir fry dishes are a cornerstone of quick, delicious, and versatile cooking. They allow you to combine a variety of ingredients and flavors into a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Today, we’re exploring a classic combination of beef and bok choy, a pairing that delivers a delightful balance of tender meat, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces. This Beef & Bok Choy Stir Fry is a dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner while still feeling special enough for the weekend.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped (both leaves and stems)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef:
Start by preparing the beef. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Combine thoroughly until the beef is fully covered. Let it sit in the marinade for a minimum of 15 minutes. This helps to infuse the meat with flavor and makes it more tender.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the beef is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Chop the bok choy, slice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
3. Cook the Beef:
Preheat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and pour in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. When the oil is shimmering, place the marinated beef in a single layer. Sauté the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it achieves a browned exterior and is cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the beef in batches if needed.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, incorporate the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for approximately 30 seconds, or until the aroma is released. Be sure to keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the sliced onion, bok choy, bell pepper, and snap peas to the pan. Stir fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. The vegetables should be cooked but still retain a bit of crunch, which adds texture to the dish.
6. Combine and Sauce:
Return the beef to the pan and combine it with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir everything together, ensuring that the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. If the stir fry seems a bit dry, add the beef broth or water to create more sauce. Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry and stir to combine.
7. Serve:
Serve the Beef & Bok Choy Stir Fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
This Beef & Bok Choy Stir Fry is a fantastic dish that combines the savory flavors of marinated beef with the fresh, slightly bitter notes of bok choy. It’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. The flexibility of the stir fry allows you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and become a go-to favorite in your household. Enjoy!