Embark on a flavorful adventure with every dish.

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delicious dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With its crispy beef and vibrant vegetables, this stir-fry is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to impressing guests at dinner parties. The harmony of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This stir-fry can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Packed: The combination of sauces creates a deliciously complex taste that’s sure to satisfy.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.
  • Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy beef and colorful veggies.
  • Healthy Option: It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry effortlessly, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen tools ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Wok or large skillet: Provides an even cooking surface, allowing for quick frying at high heat.
  • Knife: A sharp knife is essential for thinly slicing the beef against the grain for tenderness.

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 apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
  • 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 slices. In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and vinegar. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Let it sit 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. This will create your flavorful stir-fry sauce.

Step 3: SautΓ© Vegetables

Heat vegetable oil in your wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and onions; sautΓ© for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Push the veggies to one side of the wok. Increase heat to high and add more oil if necessary. Add marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for about 30 seconds before stirring everything together. Cook until beef is browned but not overcooked.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour your prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables in the wok. Stir everything together until well-coated and let it cook for another minute or two until thickened slightly. Your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is now ready to serve!

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Serving Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is about creating a delightful experience that enhances the dish’s flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to serve this savory meal.

With Steamed Rice

  • Steamed white or brown rice provides a neutral base that complements the spicy and sweet sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

  • Serve the stir-fry in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy alternative, perfect for a light meal.

Over Noodles

  • Pour the beef stir-fry over cooked noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles, for an extra hearty dish.

With a Side Salad

  • A simple cucumber or Asian slaw salad can add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the beef.

Accompanied by Dumplings

  • Pairing with steamed or pan-fried dumplings adds another layer of texture and flavor to your meal.

How to Perfect Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

To achieve the best results with your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry, consider these helpful tips:

  • Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the beef remains tender and juicy while getting that perfect sear.

  • Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the beef against the grain makes it more tender and easier to chew.

  • Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will help you cook efficiently without burning anything.

  • Adjust Spiciness: Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili garlic sauce according to your preference.

  • Let Sauce Thicken: Allowing your sauce to thicken before serving will enhance its flavor and help it coat the beef and vegetables better.

Best Side Dishes for Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Fried Rice
    A classic side that brings additional flavor and texture, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the stir-fry.

  2. Garlic Broccoli
    Steamed or sautΓ©ed broccoli with garlic adds a nutritious boost and complements the flavors of the beef beautifully.

  3. Egg Rolls
    Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables or chicken make for a wonderful appetizer alongside your main dish.

  4. Cucumber Salad
    A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar is refreshing and balances out the richness of the stir-fry.

  5. Miso Soup
    A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting addition, providing depth to your meal experience.

  6. Stir-Fried Snow Peas
    Quick-cooked snow peas add vibrant color and a slight crunch that pairs well with beef stir-fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Always allow the beef to soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes.
  • Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a crispy texture.
  • Neglecting the Sauce: Using a bland sauce will make your stir-fry unappetizing. Ensure you balance flavors with sweet, spicy, and savory elements.
  • Ignoring Vegetable Preparation: Cutting vegetables unevenly results in inconsistent cooking. Slice them all to a similar thickness for even cooking.
  • Cooking at Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that signature char. Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat for best results.
Beijing-Style

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

  • Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and stir until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?
Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a flavorful dish made with thinly sliced beef, vibrant vegetables, and a sweet-spicy sauce that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine.

How do I make Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry more spicy?
To increase the spice level, simply add more chili garlic sauce or sliced fresh chilies during cooking.

Can I use other proteins for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute flank steak with chicken, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

What vegetables can I add to Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?
You can incorporate additional veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

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 veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy an authentic taste of Beijing right in your kitchen!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry


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

Description

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine to your dinner table. With its tender slices of beef combined with colorful vegetables, this stir-fry not only satisfies your taste buds but also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet and spicy sauce elevates each bite, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys this quick and easy meal. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete experience that will impress family and friends alike.


Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Marinate beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and vinegar in a bowl. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, mix ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water to create the sauce.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. SautΓ© garlic and onion for 2 minutes before adding bell peppers; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Push veggies to one side of the wok and increase heat. Add marinated beef in a single layer and sear for about 30 seconds before stirring. Cook until browned.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables; stir well to coat and cook until slightly thickened.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 840mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: You can customize the vegetable mix based on what you have available. Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of chili garlic sauce used. For a lighter option, serve in lettuce wraps instead of rice or noodles.

Related Articles

Spicy Beef Curry Recipe

Spicy Beef Curry Recipe

Spicy Beef Curry Recipe is a delightful dish that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. This fiery slow-simmered curry features tender beef

Read More

π‚π‘πžπŸ Adeline

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Chef Adeline