This Easy Beef Stir Fry is a quick meal packed with flavor! Tender beef strips and fresh veggies come together in a sweet and savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Beef sirloin or flank steak works best for this stir fry due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a lean option, consider using chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian version. They both absorb the flavors well!
Vegetables: Fresh veggies are key! Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and crunch. If you’re missing any, feel free to use carrots, zucchini, or even frozen mixed vegetables in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Garlic & Onions: These aromatics build a great base flavor. For a milder taste, you can use green onions instead. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can substitute for fresh garlic.
Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for depth, while oyster and hoisin sauces provide sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Spice: Red pepper flakes or chili paste can add a nice kick. For those who prefer less heat, simply skip it or use a mild sauce instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Beef?
Getting tender beef in your stir fry is crucial. The key is slicing the meat against the grain and making sure it’s thin. Here’s how to do it right:
- Put the beef in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. It’ll firm up, making it easier to slice thin.
- Once firm, slice it thinly against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, leading to tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan when cooking. Fry in batches if needed, so each piece can brown nicely.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked beef every time!
Easy Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or chili paste (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy beef stir fry ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by slicing the beef and vegetables thinly. This helps everything cook quickly and evenly. Make sure to slice the beef against the grain for tenderness!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and the cornstarch slurry. This will create a tasty sauce that will coat everything perfectly later on.
3. Heat the Pan:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking. This is key to getting a nice sear on the beef!
4. Cook the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but still tender. Once done, remove the beef from the wok and set it aside.
5. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they are fragrant. This will add great flavor to your dish!
6. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Add the broccoli, snap peas (or green beans), and bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are crisp-tender and vibrant in color. This is where your dish really starts to come together!
7. Combine It All:
Return the beef to the wok. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Stir everything well to coat. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and the dish is heated through.
8. Finish It Off:
Remove the stir fry from heat. Drizzle with sesame oil if using, and sprinkle red pepper flakes or chili paste if you like some heat. This step really enhances the flavors!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your delicious beef stir fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy this tasty and colorful meal!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful easy beef stir fry!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting before slicing. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
You can substitute or add any of your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just remember to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking, and adjust the cooking time if needed!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or chili paste to suit your taste. You can also add a splash of hot sauce or serve with sriracha on the side for an extra kick!