Quick & Easy Chinese-style Tender Beef
Chinese-style beef is a delicious, quick, and easy stir-fry dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender slices of beef coated in a savory sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen. Below, we’ll guide you through each step to prepare this delectable dish, from marinating the beef to creating the perfect stir-fry. Let’s dive in!
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Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly cut | 1 pound (450 grams) |
| Soy sauce (2:1 ratio) | 1/4 cup |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, minced | 1-inch chunk |
| Bell pepper, sliced | 1 piece |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 piece |
| Green onions, chopped | 2 pieces |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Marinating the beef is essential for both flavor and tenderness. Begin by placing the thinly sliced beef in a mixing bowl. Add cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and mayonnaise to the bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that each piece of beef is evenly coated with the marinade. Let the beef marinate for exactly 15 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
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Step 2: Stir-fry the Beef
Now it’s time to bring your stir-fry to life! 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 and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
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Step 3: Stir-fry the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell their wonderful aroma.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add the sliced onions and bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry these vegetables for 2-3 minutes, or until they soften and develop a slight char. These vegetables add both texture and flavor to the dish, creating a balance between the tender beef and the crisp veggies.
Step 5: Return the Beef to the Skillet
Once the vegetables are softened, return the cooked beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until the beef is well-coated with the sauce, and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, along with the sesame oil’s nuttiness, will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the stir-fry with chopped green onions. These onions add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish, enhancing both the flavor and presentation. Serve hot, over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
