Quick and Tender Beef: The Chinese Method for Softening Even the Toughest Cuts

Unlock the secret to tender and flavorful beef with this quick and easy Chinese-inspired recipe. Perfectly cooked with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce, this dish turns even the toughest cuts of beef into a succulent and delicious meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in no time.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef, sliced into thin pieces
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef:
    • Slice the beef into thin pieces against the grain. This helps in making the meat more tender.
  2. Marinate the Beef:
    • In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
    • Let the beef marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender and fragrant.
    • Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Cook the Beef:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
    • Add the marinated beef and cook over high heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
  5. Combine and Simmer:
    • Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the beef.
    • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 cup of beef broth. Stir well to combine.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
    • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
    • Gradually stir the slurry into the skillet, continuing to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the tender beef and vegetables hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Chinese-inspired tender beef recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and quick dinner. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can transform tough beef into a tender and delicious dish. Enjoy the savory taste and vibrant colors of this meal, perfect for any night of the week!

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