Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe combines tender beef with colorful vegetables and a sweet-spicy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its quick cooking time and simple ingredients make it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone wanting to impress guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap vegetables or proteins based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this stir-fry is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful mix of peppers and onions adds visual appeal to your dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient experience when preparing your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wok allows for high heat cooking, which is essential for achieving that perfect stir-fry texture.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes slicing the beef and vegetables easier and safer, allowing for consistent pieces that cook evenly.

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

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 meat with cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Toss well until all pieces are evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water. Set aside this flavorful sauce; it will bring everything together.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring until browned on one side. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until fully cooked but still tender. Remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary. Toss in sliced bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the wok along with your prepared sauce. Stir everything together until well coated and heated through—approximately 2-3 minutes.

Serve your delicious Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry hot over rice or noodles! Enjoy this meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce.
• Fried Rice: For added flavor, consider using leftover rice sautéed with vegetables and eggs.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Crisp Cucumber Slices: A refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stir-fry.
• Pickled Carrots: These add a tangy crunch that complements the sweetness of the beef.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle on top for a burst of freshness.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.

Serve as Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with stir-fried beef and veggies.
• Spring Roll Wrappers: For a fun twist, fill spring roll wrappers with the mixture and fry until crispy.

How to Perfect Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

To achieve restaurant-quality Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry at home, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Marinade: Always marinate your beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook quickly on high heat to keep the beef tender and vegetables crisp.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the beef against the grain helps maintain its tenderness when cooked.
• Prep Ingredients in Advance: Have all your ingredients ready before cooking, as stir-frying is a fast process.

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 excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: Quick and easy, this dish can incorporate leftover vegetables and protein for extra nutrition.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that complements the robust flavors of the stir-fry nicely.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This adds a healthy green element and balances out the sweet-spicy flavors of the beef.
4. Garlic Noodles: Simple noodles tossed in garlic butter provide great texture.
5. Wontons in Chili Oil: These add a spicy kick and are perfect for dipping into sauce.
6. Sesame Spinach Salad: A fresh salad dressed with sesame oil provides contrast in both flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are key mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef for too long can make it tough. Ensure you stir-fry quickly over high heat to keep it tender and juicy.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the beef can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to marinate with soy sauce and Shaoxing wine for a richer taste.

• Using Too Much Sauce: Adding too much sauce can overpower the dish. Start with a little and adjust according to your preference for balance.

• Not Preparing Ingredients in Advance: Failing to chop veggies beforehand can delay cooking. Have all ingredients ready to ensure a quick and effective stir-fry process.

• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at a low temperature can result in soggy vegetables and greasy beef. Use high heat for that perfect crispy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Transfer into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and stir-fry until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with chicken, pork, or tofu for a different protein option while maintaining similar flavors.

How spicy is Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?

The spiciness depends on the amount of chili garlic sauce added. Adjust the quantity according to your heat preference.

What vegetables work well in this stir-fry?

You can add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color while keeping the essence of Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry intact.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces used are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Sweet & Spicy Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!

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: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your dining table. This quick and easy recipe combines tender beef with colorful bell peppers and a sweet-spicy sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at special occasions. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, thanks to the bright colors of fresh vegetables. With its customizable ingredients and healthy profile, this stir-fry will quickly become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 small onion
• 2 garlic cloves
• Soy sauce
• Shaoxing wine
• Rice vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Chili garlic sauce
• Vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Marinate the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine; let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Whisk together ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water in a bowl.
3. Heat oil in a wok over high heat; cook marinated beef until browned on both sides. Remove from wok.
4. Stir-fry sliced bell peppers and onion in the same wok until softened; add minced garlic in the last minute.
5. Return beef to the wok along with the prepared sauce; stir until everything is well-coated and heated through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg