This Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a colorful, savory delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender beef pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables, all coated in a rich and flavorful sauce.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility you can switch up the veggies based on what’s in your fridge, or add a touch of spice for extra heat. Whether served over rice or noodles, this satisfying stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and sauté the onion, bell peppers, broccoli, carrot, garlic, and ginger for 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Beef stir-fry with vegetables is a classic dish known for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and ease of preparation. Combining tender beef slices with crisp, colorful vegetables, this dish offers a well-balanced meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, mastering beef stir-fry is an essential skill that can elevate your weeknight dinners to new heights.
Why Beef Stir-Fry is a Must-Try Dish
One of the greatest strengths of beef stir-fry is its versatility. This dish can be customized to suit various tastes, dietary needs, and ingredient availability. The combination of beef and vegetables provides a powerful mix of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome and well-rounded option for busy families or anyone seeking a quick yet nourishing meal.
Additionally, beef stir-fry is incredibly adaptable when it comes to flavor profiles. From savory and umami-rich sauces to spicy and tangy marinades, you can tailor the dish to reflect your favorite cuisine. For instance, adding soy sauce and ginger offers a traditional Asian flavor, while incorporating garlic, paprika, or cumin can take the dish in a Mediterranean direction. This flexibility ensures that you can keep the recipe exciting and fresh with minimal effort.
Choosing the Right Beef for Stir-Fry
Selecting the appropriate cut of beef is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful results. Popular options include sirloin, flank steak, and ribeye, which are known for their rich marbling and ability to cook quickly. Thinly slicing the beef against the grain helps break down muscle fibers, ensuring tenderness in every bite.
Marinating the beef is another key step in maximizing flavor. A simple marinade with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a touch of sesame oil not only enhances taste but also helps create a glossy texture when cooked. This method locks in moisture, preventing the beef from becoming dry or tough.
The Power of Vegetables in Stir-Fry
Vegetables are not just a colorful addition; they contribute significantly to the dish’s nutritional value. Common choices include bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and onions, all of which add a satisfying crunch and layers of flavor. Incorporating a variety of vegetables ensures a dynamic combination of textures and nutrients, boosting the overall appeal of the dish.
The key to perfectly cooked vegetables in a stir-fry is timing. Since vegetables cook at different speeds, it’s important to stagger their addition to the pan. Softer vegetables like onions and bell peppers should go in first, while firmer options like broccoli and carrots are best added later to maintain their texture.
Creating the Perfect Stir-Fry Sauce
A rich, savory sauce is what brings a beef stir-fry together. The ideal sauce should have a balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes. Traditional ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil combine to create a bold and satisfying flavor. Adding garlic and ginger infuses the dish with aromatic depth, while a splash of beef broth can enhance the richness of the sauce.
For those who enjoy a hint of heat, adding chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh sliced chili peppers can elevate the spice level without overpowering the dish.
Pro Tips for Cooking Beef Stir-Fry
- High Heat is Key: Cooking your stir-fry over high heat ensures that the beef sears quickly, locking in juices and creating a rich caramelization.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-fry in small batches to avoid steaming the beef and vegetables. Cooking in smaller portions ensures better texture and prevents ingredients from becoming soggy.
- Prep Everything in Advance: Stir-frying is a fast process, so having all your ingredients prepped and within reach is essential for success.
Serving Suggestions
Beef stir-fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a modern twist. For a low-carb alternative, try serving it over cauliflower rice or mixed greens. Garnishing with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime can add an extra burst of flavor and elevate the dish’s presentation.
Nutritional Benefits of Beef Stir-Fry
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which support energy levels and muscle growth. The vibrant vegetables add essential fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, promoting overall health and well-being. Together, these components create a balanced meal ideal for fueling an active lifestyle.
Conclusion
Beef stir-fry with vegetables is a timeless, adaptable dish that offers the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or cooking for a gathering, this stir-fry is sure to impress with its bold flavors and vibrant appearance. By following key techniques like selecting the right cut of beef, marinating effectively, and balancing your sauce, you can create a restaurant-quality stir-fry right in your own kitchen.
With endless customization possibilities and easy preparation steps, beef stir-fry deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. Enjoy the simplicity, savor the flavors, and get creative with your ingredients for a dish that’s always exciting and satisfying.