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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef: Sirloin or flank steak works best for this dish, as they are tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken breast or firm tofu for a vegetarian choice.

Soy Sauce: This adds a rich, umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or tamari, which are both great substitutes.

Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors for a more vibrant dish. If bell peppers aren’t your favorite, snap peas or even sliced zucchinis can add a nice crunch.

Oyster Sauce: It enhances the depth of flavor. If you’re vegetarian, look for mushroom-based oyster sauce or simply skip it if you prefer.

Cornstarch: This helps make the beef tender and gives a nice texture. If you don’t have cornstarch, a bit of flour or arrowroot powder can work fine.

How Can I Ensure My Beef is Tender in Stir Fry?

Tender beef makes all the difference in stir fry. The key is in the slicing and marinating:

• Always slice against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and makes each bite more tender.
• Marinating in soy sauce and cornstarch not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the beef, so let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes.
• Cook the beef quickly over high heat. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even browning. This takes only 2-3 minutes!

How to Make Beef Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips or substitute with snap peas
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2-3 green onions, sliced diagonally
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Lime wedge, for garnish

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chopped fresh chili
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Beef Stir Fry takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a flavorful meal ready in just about 30-35 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

Begin by placing the thinly sliced beef in a medium bowl. Add the soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss everything together until the beef is well coated. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes to soak up all that tasty flavor.

2. Make the Dipping Sauce:

While the beef is marinating, prepare your dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Set it aside for later.

3. Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry quickly for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Once done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics:

Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until everything is fragrant and aromatic.

5. Add the Vegetables:

Next, add in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas (if you’re using them). Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp—this keeps things colorful and crunchy!

6. Combine Everything:

Now, return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the oyster sauce and hoisin sauce (if you want an extra touch of sweetness). Stir everything well to make sure it’s all coated in the delicious sauces, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch. Serve your Beef Stir Fry hot over a bed of steamed white rice and add a lime wedge on the side. Don’t forget to enjoy it with your spicy soy dipping sauce!

Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Carrots, snap peas, or celery work great, or even add some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so everything is tender yet crisp.

What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Hoisin Sauce?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can skip it or use a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. A dash of peanut butter can also add a nice depth of flavor!

How Should I Store Leftover Stir Fry?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to help keep it moist as you heat.

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free, or use a gluten-free hoisin sauce or simply omit it!