This Asparagus and Beef Stir-Fry is a speedy and flavorful meal ideal for hectic weeknights. It showcases succulent beef strips paired with crunchy asparagus, all enveloped in a rich garlic sauce that highlights traditional Asian tastes. The blend of soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and a touch of sweetness from hoisin and oyster sauces forms a delicious foundation that transforms the beef and asparagus into a dish worthy of fine dining, effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 450 g (1 lb) tender beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into thin strips, slicing against the grain for tenderness
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, with woody ends removed, cut into 5 cm (2-inch) segments
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced for a fragrant kick
- 30 ml (2 Tbsp) vegetable oil (choose between canola or toasted sesame for a nutty flavor)
- 30 ml (2 Tbsp) soy sauce, for a rich umami depth
- 15 ml (1 Tbsp) oyster sauce (optional, for extra savoriness)
- 15 ml (1 Tbsp) hoisin sauce (optional, for a sweet touch)
- 2 g (1/2 tsp) granulated sugar to balance flavors
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) water or beef broth for a flavorful base
- 5 g (1 tsp) cornstarch combined with 15 ml (1 Tbsp) water to create a silky sauce
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the dish
- Sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a finishing touch (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Begin by marinating the beef strips in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (if using), and sugar for about 15 minutes. This will infuse the meat with rich flavors.
- 2. Ignite the Flavors: In a spacious skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This step will create the perfect base for your dish, ensuring the aromatics release their delightful fragrance and enhance the overall flavor profile. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to high, then add the marinated beef to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through.
- Stir-Fry the Asparagus: In the same pan, add the asparagus pieces. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp.
- Combine and Thicken: Return the beef to the pan. Add the water or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it simmer for another minute, until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion:
Indulge in this mouthwatering Sizzling Beef and Asparagus Delight, where succulent strips of beef meet vibrant, crunchy asparagus in a savory garlic-infused sauce. This quick and easy stir-fry is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of fresh, bold flavors that elevate your dinner experience. Whether you choose to include optional ingredients or stick to the basics, this adaptable recipe caters to all preferences, making it a go-to choice for family meals or casual gatherings. Delight your taste buds with this enticing dish that promises to impress!
Savory Beef and Garlic Asparagus Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- 450 g 1 lb tender beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into thin strips, slicing against the grain for tenderness
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus with woody ends removed, cut into 5 cm (2-inch) segments
- 4 cloves of garlic finely minced for a fragrant kick
- 30 ml 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (choose between canola or toasted sesame for a nutty flavor)
- 30 ml 2 Tbsp soy sauce, for a rich umami depth
- 15 ml 1 Tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra savoriness)
- 15 ml 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for a sweet touch)
- 2 g 1/2 tsp granulated sugar to balance flavors
- 60 ml 1/4 cup water or beef broth for a flavorful base
- 5 g 1 tsp cornstarch combined with 15 ml (1 Tbsp) water to create a silky sauce
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the dish
- Sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a finishing touch optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Begin by marinating the beef strips in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (if using), and sugar for about 15 minutes. This will infuse the meat with rich flavors.
- 2. Ignite the Flavors: In a spacious skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This step will create the perfect base for your dish, ensuring the aromatics release their delightful fragrance and enhance the overall flavor profile. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to high, then add the marinated beef to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through.
- Stir-Fry the Asparagus: In the same pan, add the asparagus pieces. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp.
- Combine and Thicken: Return the beef to the pan. Add the water or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it simmer for another minute, until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor.