Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, about 1 cm wide. If using beef fillet or sirloin, this will ensure tender bites after cooking.
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with the marinade. Let the beef marinate for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and help tenderize it.
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the beef is marinating, slice the sweet peppers into thin strips. You can use a mix of red and yellow peppers for a colorful presentation.
Slice the onion into thin strips as well, and set aside.
Mince the garlic and ginger, preparing them for the stir-fry.
Cook the Beef:
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, swirling the pan to coat it evenly.
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in small batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Stir-fry the beef for 2-3 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Repeat the process for any remaining beef.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften and turn translucent.
Add the sliced sweet peppers and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine the Beef and Vegetables:
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and toss everything together to combine. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. You can add a little more soy sauce if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Serve:
Transfer the stir-fried beef and vegetables to a serving dish.
Sprinkle the dish with sesame seeds for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Serve hot, with steamed rice or noodles on the side for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 1200 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like flank steak, skirt steak, or even ribeye. Just ensure you slice the beef thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.
What can I substitute for soy sauce? If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari (a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos, which have a similar flavor but are lower in sodium. Adjust the quantity to taste as these substitutes may vary in strength.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to make the dish more colorful and nutritious. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they remain crisp-tender.
Can I marinate the beef longer? Yes, marinating the beef for longer (up to 2 hours) will enhance the flavor and tenderness. However, avoid marinating overnight as the cornstarch and egg mixture may alter the texture of the beef over a prolonged period.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger? If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. However, fresh ginger provides a more aromatic and zesty flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Stir-Fried Beef
Use High Heat for Stir-Frying: Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that requires high heat. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef to achieve a nice sear and prevent the meat from becoming soggy.
Cook the Beef in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when stir-frying the beef. If the pan is too crowded, the beef will steam instead of searing, leading to less flavorful and tender meat.
Slice the Beef Thinly: Thinly slicing the beef ensures quick cooking and tender results. It also allows the marinade to penetrate the meat evenly, adding flavor to every bite.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: For the best texture, cook the vegetables until they are just tender but still slightly crisp. Overcooking can make them mushy and lose their vibrant color.
Customize the Sauce: You can adjust the flavor of the stir-fry sauce to suit your taste. Add a splash of rice vinegar for a bit of tanginess, or some honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Storage Tips
In the Refrigerator: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
In the Freezer: You can freeze the cooked beef and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Stir-Fried Beef with Sweet Peppers and Ginger Soy Sauce is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory soy-ginger sauce makes for a satisfying and balanced meal. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to add or swap vegetables to suit your taste. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this stir-fry is a fantastic option for anyone who loves bold flavors and a wholesome, delicious dinner. Enjoy this dish with your favorite side of steamed rice or noodles!
