Beef stir fry is a classic dish that combines tender, juicy beef with vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. It’s a quick and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet delicious enough for special occasions. This recipe for Beef Stir Fry with Onions and Peppers is packed with flavor and easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for any home cook. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
Stir-fry Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce (either standard or low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ cup water
For the Stir-fry:
- 1 pound flank steak
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 3 scallions, cut into 2-inch sections
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Ground pepper to taste
- Neutral-flavored oil for searing and sautéing
Instructions:
- Preparing the Beef:
- Thinly slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tender pieces. In a bowl, combine the beef slices with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This mixture acts as a tenderizer. Allow the beef to marinate for approximately 15 minutes.
- Making the Sauce:
- In a different bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, sesame oil, and 1/2 cup of water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This mixture will serve as your flavorful stir-fry sauce.
- Cooking the Beef:
- Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it starts to smoke. Add a generous amount of neutral-flavored oil. Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets a nice brown color. Once seared, remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Sautéing the Vegetables:
- In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary and reduce the heat to medium-high. Add the sliced onions and red bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but still retain a bit of crunch.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the wok, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combining Everything:
- Return the seared beef to the wok along with the scallions. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through. Season with ground pepper to taste.
- Serving:
- Serve the beef stir fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, garnished with additional scallions if desired. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the tender, juicy beef with every bite.
Conclusion:
This Beef Stir Fry with Onions and Peppers is a delightful combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that comes together in no time. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this stir fry is sure to impress. Savor the delicious blend of tastes and textures in this classic dish and enjoy every mouthful!