Beef stir-fry is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp vegetables and a rich, savory sauce.
It’s a favorite for busy weeknights because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle of takeout.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Simple – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Packed with Flavor – A rich, umami-packed sauce makes this dish irresistible.
Customizable – Use your favorite vegetables and adjust seasonings to taste.
Healthy Option – With lean protein and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome meal.
One-Pan Convenience – Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1/2 onion, sliced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Marinate in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1/2 tsp cornstarch for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add carrots and broccoli, stir-fry for 2 minutes.
Add bell peppers, onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef
Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the same pan.
Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked.
Return the vegetables to the pan.
5. Combine & Serve
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables.
Stir well to coat everything evenly, letting the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Pro Tips for the Best Stir-Fry
Choose the Right Cut of Beef – Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best due to their tenderness and flavor.
Slice Against the Grain – This ensures the beef stays tender and doesn’t become chewy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook beef in batches if necessary to get a nice sear.
Use High Heat – A hot pan helps to quickly sear the beef and keep vegetables crisp.
Pre-Mix the Sauce – Having the sauce ready makes for a smoother cooking process.
Experiment with Vegetables – Try snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Protein?
Yes! This recipe works great with chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. How Do I Make It Spicier?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
3. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
4. Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. How Do I Prevent My Beef from Being Tough?
Marinating with soy sauce and cornstarch helps keep the beef tender. Also, avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Beef Stir-Fry is the perfect go-to recipe for a fast, flavorful meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is a winner. Try it tonight and enjoy a homemade stir-fry that’s even better than takeout!
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