Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is an irresistible dish that combines tender beef with vibrant vegetables, coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions, this recipe brings the flavors of China right to your table. With its crispy texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to please everyone from picky eaters to gourmet food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This stir-fry can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, and chili garlic sauce creates a deliciously complex flavor profile.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Great Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools for a smooth experience. Having the right equipment will ensure your stir-fry comes out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for frying ingredients quickly at high heat.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking, especially when slicing beef and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
• 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by marinating the beef. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Mix well to coat evenly. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another minute until just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Toss in sliced red and green bell peppers along with onion and garlic. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan with vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry over rice or noodles!

How to Serve Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the stir-fry perfectly.
• Fried Rice: For a more flavorful option, consider serving it over fried rice, which adds texture and depth.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Crisp Cucumber Slices: These refreshing slices can provide a cool contrast to the heat of the beef stir-fry.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled veggies can add a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness.

Garnish Creatively

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and appealing crunch.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add a mild onion flavor.

How to Perfect Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

To make sure your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that satisfying crispy texture on the beef.
• Marinate the Beef: Allowing the beef to marinate helps infuse it with flavors from soy sauce and Shaoxing wine.
• Prep All Ingredients First: Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth stir-frying process.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-frying in batches prevents steaming and keeps your beef crispy.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry can enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Egg Fried Rice: This classic side dish is easy to prepare and adds an extra layer of flavor and protein.
2. Asian Noodle Salad: A cold noodle salad with vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm stir-fry.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds color and nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat offer additional crunch and flavor.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can complement the richness of your stir-fry very well.
6. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings a crisp texture and subtle flavor that’s perfect alongside beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using thick slices of beef: Cutting the beef against the grain into thin strips ensures tenderness. Thick slices can lead to chewy meat.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is crucial for coating the beef, giving it a crispy texture. Without it, the beef may become soggy during frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much beef at once can lower the pan’s temperature, resulting in steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Neglecting to prep ingredients beforehand: Stir-frying happens quickly. Prepare and chop all ingredients before starting to ensure everything cooks evenly without burning.
• Ignoring heat levels: Cooking on low heat can prevent proper browning. Use medium-high heat for quick cooking that maintains flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stir-fry to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It lasts up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread stir-fry on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add stir-fry and sauté until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry spicier?

To increase heat, add more chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes while cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, depending on what you enjoy or have on hand.

How do I know when my beef is cooked perfectly?

Beef should be browned on the outside but still tender inside. Avoid overcooking, as it can become tough and dry.

What can I serve with Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?

Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. You could also pair it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delicious and versatile dish that brings bold flavors together with crispy textures. This recipe allows for customization, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender beef with fresh vegetables in a sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this stir-fry delivers authentic Chinese flavors straight to your kitchen. With its vibrant colors and bold tastes, it appeals to everyone from picky eaters to culinary enthusiasts. This one-pan wonder not only saves time on cleanup but also makes delicious leftovers that are even better the next day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Marinate the beef by combining it with cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine in a bowl. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
2. Whisk together ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water in another bowl.
3. Heat oil in a wok over high heat and cook the marinated beef until browned; set aside.
4. In the same pan, stir-fry bell peppers and onion until tender yet crisp.
5. Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, and cook for an additional few minutes until heated through.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg