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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef: I love using flank steak for its tenderness, but sirloin works too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken or tofu for a delightful twist!

Vegetable Oil: You can use canola or peanut oil, which have high smoke points. For a twist, try sesame oil for cooking, but remember it has a strong flavor!

Vegetables: Feel free to swap broccoli with snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Frozen stir-fry veggie mixes are a great shortcut when fresh veggies aren’t available.

Sauces: If you’re out of oyster sauce, you can use more soy sauce or even teriyaki sauce as a substitute. Hoisin adds sweetness, so if you skip it, add a pinch of sugar instead.

How Can I Ensure My Beef is Tender in a Stir Fry?

For a tender beef stir fry, slicing against the grain is key. This means cutting through the muscle fibers, which helps make the beef easier to chew. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking it in batches results in better searing and flavor.

• Before cooking, let the beef marinate in a bit of soy sauce for 15-20 minutes. It really enhances flavor!
• Sear the beef quickly on high heat for just 1-2 minutes. Overcooking makes it tough.
• Rest the beef for a moment after cooking to allow the juices to settle back in.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious beef stir fry in no time! Enjoy your cooking!

Easy Beef Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut oil)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

For Serving:

• Cooked white rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red chili flakes or fresh chili (optional for heat)

Time Needed:

This Easy Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have dinner ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

First, slice the beef thinly against the grain. This helps keep it tender and easy to chew. If it’s a bit tough to slice, try freezing the beef for about 30 minutes first, as it makes it easier to cut.

2. Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well and set it aside for later.

3. Heat the Pan:

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the beef.

4. Sear the Beef:

Add the sliced beef in a single layer to the pan, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Let it sear for about 2 minutes until it’s browned but not fully cooked. Then remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

5. Sauté Aromatics:

Using the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Then add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!

6. Cook the Vegetables:

Add the sliced onions, broccoli florets, and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the veggies are bright and crisp-tender. You want them cooked but still crunchy!

7. Combine Everything:

Return the beef to the pan and pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients. Toss everything together to coat it well.

8. Thicken the Sauce:

Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and vegetables.

9. Add Heat (optional):

If you enjoy some spice, sprinkle in red chili flakes or add fresh chili slices to the stir fry now. Mix it well to incorporate the heat.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your delicious beef stir fry hot over cooked white rice. Enjoy the colorful, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week!

This vibrant, colorful stir fry is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. Enjoy your homemade meal!

Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for This Stir Fry?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are ideal for tenderness, you can also use cuts like ribeye or even ground beef. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; thinner cuts cook faster!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the beef with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for added flavor without the meat.

What Vegetables Can I Use Instead of Broccoli and Peppers?

Feel free to get creative with your veggies! Snap peas, carrots, zucchini, and even baby corn work great in stir fries. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.