Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

The Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and textures to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish showcases tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a sweet-spicy sauce that’s sure to impress. The balance of flavors makes it versatile enough for any occasion, whether served over rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of ketchup, hoisin sauce, and chili garlic sauce creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Colorful Veggies: Vibrant bell peppers and onions not only add color but also provide essential nutrients to your meal.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of chili garlic sauce according to your preference.
• Easy Cleanup: With just one pan needed for cooking, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring even stir-frying and quick cooking times.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts, which helps in cooking ingredients evenly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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

Start by marinating the thinly sliced beef. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

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 until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook without stirring for about 2 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another minute until just cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and sliced onions; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add red and green bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2–3 minutes until they are tender yet crispy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan with vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this flavorful meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice pairs perfectly, soaking up the delicious sauce and balancing the flavors.

Over Noodles

• Serve the stir-fry over cooked noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles, for a hearty meal that satisfies.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a light option, spoon the stir-fry into fresh lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld dish that adds crunch.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa offers a nutritious alternative to rice and adds a nutty flavor, making it an excellent base for the beef stir-fry.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Add pickled carrots or cucumbers on the side for a tangy contrast that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

To achieve the best results with your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate the Beef: Letting the beef marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes helps tenderize it and infuse flavor.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures quick searing of the beef, which keeps it juicy while developing a nice char.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to avoid steaming; this helps maintain crispness in your stir-fry.

• Add Vegetables Last: To keep them vibrant and crunchy, add vegetables towards the end of cooking rather than at the beginning.

• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning with salt or additional sauces right before serving to ensure it’s just right.

Best Side Dishes for Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

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

1. Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment that complements stir-fried dishes with its rich flavors and textures.

2. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Cooked with garlic and ginger for added flavor, this veggie side is both nutritious and tasty.

3. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that adds warmth and comfort; perfect for starting your meal on a soothing note.

4. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp provide a delightful crunch alongside your stir-fry.

5. Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing that enhances the meal’s overall freshness.

6. Cucumber Salad: A cool salad dressed with rice vinegar; it adds a crunchy contrast to warm dishes.

7. Garlic Bok Choy: Quickly sautéed bok choy brings vibrant color and nutrients to your plate while complementing the main dish nicely.

8. Miso Soup: Light yet flavorful, miso soup is soothing and pairs well with many Asian-inspired meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid using thick slices of beef. Thinly slicing the beef against the grain ensures tenderness and better absorption of flavors.
• Don’t forget to dry the beef. Patting the beef dry before marinating helps achieve a perfect crispy texture while frying.
• Skip the overcrowding in the pan. Stir-frying works best with small batches; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying.
• Remember not to omit prep work. Preparing all ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
• Don’t ignore the sauce balance. Adjusting sweetness or spice according to taste can enhance the overall flavor profile of your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, portion out individual servings before freezing.

Reheating Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stir-fry in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry.

How do I make my Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry more flavorful?

Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions at the end can enhance freshness and flavor without overpowering the dish.

Can I use other meats for Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?

Yes! You can substitute flank steak with chicken, turkey, or even lamb for a different twist on this classic recipe.

What vegetables work well in Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference or what you have available.

How can I customize my Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?

Customize by adjusting spice levels with more or less chili garlic sauce and modifying sweetness with extra brown sugar if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and can easily be reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Sweet & Spicy Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home. Don’t hesitate to try different proteins or vegetables to make this dish your own!