This Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal packed with colorful veggies and tender beef. It’s simple to make, and the sauce is really flavorful. Who doesn’t love that crunch from the veggies?
When I make this dish, I feel like a chef! I usually serve it over rice or noodles, and it’s gone in no time. Even my picky eater enjoys it, so I call that a win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin and flank steak are great choices for tenderness. If unavailable, you can use skirt steak or even chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetables: While this recipe features broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots, feel free to mix in your favorites like snap peas or bok choy. They add different flavors and textures too!
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. Alternatively, tamari works well for a gluten-free version or you can use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Oyster Sauce: If you’re vegetarian or can’t find oyster sauce, hoisin sauce is a delicious substitute. It adds a touch of sweetness that balances wonderfully with savory flavors.
Cornstarch: You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder if you prefer. This works similarly to thicken up your sauce without gluten.
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender Beef?
The key to tender beef in stir fry is slicing it correctly and marinating. Always slice the meat against the grain; this shortens the muscle fibers and makes each bite easy to chew. Here’s how you can do it:
- Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This makes slicing thinly easier.
- Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain, which usually means cutting across the lines you see in the meat.
- Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes. The soy sauce helps tenderize while adding flavor.
Take your time with these steps, and you’ll have juicy, tender beef every time!
The Best Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb beef (sirloin or flank steak), sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
For the Sauces:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
For Garnishing:
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions and chili flakes for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stir fry will take about 15-30 minutes to prepare, depending on how long you choose to marinate the beef. Cooking time will be about 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 30-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Beef:
Start by placing the sliced beef in a bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until the beef is well coated. Let it marinate for about 15-30 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This will help to flavor the beef and tenderize it.
2. Searing the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned. Avoid stirring too much, as we want a nice sear. Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onion. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until they start to smell fragrant. This step adds a lovely flavor base for the stir fry.
4. Stir-Frying the Vegetables:
Add the broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender-crisp. This means they should be cooked but still have a bit of crunch—delicious!
5. Bringing It All Together:
Now it’s time to add the seared beef back into the pan. Pour in the beef broth or water, and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and cover all the ingredients with flavor.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once you’re done cooking, remove the pan from heat. Garnish your stir fry with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like. Serve hot, and if you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak are great choices for stir fry, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or even ground beef if preferred. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut’s thickness and tenderness!
Can I Make This Stir Fry Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes, it’s easy to adapt! Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh, and use soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. You can also boost the veggies with mushrooms or bell peppers to add more substance. Just adjust the cooking time for the tofu to ensure it gets a nice golden color.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture while reheating!
What Can I Serve with Beef Stir Fry?
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, but you can also serve it over noodles for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or with a side of mixed greens!
