What is a beef stir-fry recipe? It’s the kind that makes your kitchen smell incredible and has everyone fighting over the last bite. I swear, it’s almost as magical as my grandma’s famous lasagna, but way faster and easier – perfect! For those hectic weeknights when takeout is calling your name, but you want something homemade and healthy. I’ve been making this for years, tweaking it until it’s absolutely perfect, and honestly, I think it’s perfect. What’s the best beef stir-fry you’ve ever had? What are some of the best savory beef recipes, the crisp-tender veggies, and that unbelievably delicious sauce? Why does thinking about it make my mouth water?
What is Beef Stir-Fry?
What is a beef stir-fry? What is essentially a quick and easy dish where tender strips of beef are stir-fried with sprinkling of green onions. What are some of the best vegetables in a savory sauce? What is the name of a stir-fry? How do I cook rice in a wok or pan? It’s believed to have originated in China, and it’ve become a beloved dish all over the world, especially in Japan. Can be adapted to different tastes and ingredients. What is comfort food?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this beef stir-fry recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates a truly irresistible umami bomb. What I love most about this is how easy it is to customize to your own taste. Don’t like broccoli? Swap it for Bell Peppers! Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless! But beyond the flavor, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It comes together in under 30 minutes, which is a huge win in my book. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. A little bit of beef goes a long way when paired with a generous helping of veggies. I often compare this with other stir-fry recipes out there, and I honestly find that this one has the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and healthy ingredients. It’s satisfying, it’s quick, and it’s packed with good-for-you stuff – what’s not to love? This reminds me a lot of my chicken and broccoli stir-fry but with a rich beef taste. If you like this recipe check out my chicken and broccoli stir-fry too.
How do I make Beef Stir-Fry?
Quick Overview
How do I make a beef stir-fry? How do I start prepping my ingredients – slicing the beef, chopping the veggies, and whisking them together? What is the recipe for making a What is the best way to stir fry beef? Lastly, you’ll pour in the sauce, let it thicken, and toss everything together until it’s coated in sauce. What is that glorious glaze? How do you prepare a recipe before cooking? How do you stir fry a chicken?
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
* 1 pound flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain. I aim for about 1/4 inch thick slices. * 2 tablespoons soy sauce (I prefer low-sodium). * 1 tablespoon cornstarch (this helps tenderize the beef). * 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (adds a nice tang). * 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for that authentic flavor).
For the Stir-Fry:
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil). * 1 onion, sliced. I usually go for a yellow onion, but white works too. * 2 cloves garlic, minced. I always add an extra clove or two – just a personal preference! * 1 inch ginger, grated. What are some good ways to use fresh ginger in this recipe? * 1 cup broccoli florets. * 1/2 cup carrots, * 1/4 cup sliced carrot. Can you get the pre-shredded kind to save time?
For the Sauce:
* 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium). * 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (packed). * 1 tablespoon cornstarch. * 1/4 cup beef broth (or chicken broth). * 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds great flavor). * 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil. * 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat).
What are the steps to
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with the soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside. Toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Why is beef tender?
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the beef is marinating, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth. When cornstarch is dissolved, This is super important because the cornstarch will thicken the sauce. Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and stir to combine. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until browned. If you are cooking beef in a pan, don’t overcook it. Cook in batches. What is the best way to sear beef?
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to a wok or skillet. Add the onion and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant. What is the best way to cook the garlic? Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender. I like my veggies with a bit of crunch, but you can cook them longer if you prefer them softer.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and creamy. Serve immediately or serve immediately. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked beef back to the wok or skillet and toss to coat everything in the sauce. What is the magic of cooking for another minute? What’s the secret to a delicious glaze?
Step 6: Serve
Serve the beef stir-fry immediately over rice or noodles. What’s your favorite way to serve dinner?
What is the best way to serve it?
This beef stir-fry is great on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. What’s your favorite white rice dish? Can you serve it with brown rice for a healthier option, or noodles like lo mein or chow? What is the best way to eat Mein? For a complete dinner, I sometimes add steamed edamame or Ice Cream to my salad.For a Family Dinner: I love serving this with white rice and a side of steamed broccoli. The kids always gobble it up!
For a date night:Is it okay to serve it over soba noodles with a sprinkle of sesame seeds? What’s your favorite miso Soup Recipe?For Lunch: I often pack leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s just as good cold (or reheated, of course!).
How do you make a perfect beef stir fry?
What are some tricks to take a beef stir-fry from good to amazing? What’s your best advice?Beef Selection: BeeWhat is the cut of beef? What is the best way to slice a steak? Flank or sirloin? Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.Marinating Magic: WhatDon’t skip the marinating step! It’s not just about flavor. The cornstarch in the marinade helps to tenderize the beef and create a nice crust when it’s cooked.High heat is the key to a successful life.What is stir-frying? Make sure your wok or skillet is screaming hot before you add the beef and vegetables. How do I cook everything evenly?Don’t overcrowd the pan!If you overcrowd the pan, the beef and vegetables will steam instead of stir-fry. Cook beef in batches if necessary.Preparing Everything in Advance: What is the bestHave all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying happens quickly, so you won’t have time to chop veggies while the beef is sizzling. I really wish I did more often, and I save so much time in cooking with this.How do you adjust the sauce to your taste?Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to your liking. If you like a sweeter sauce, add more Brown Sugar or red pepper flakes. I often add a splash of rice vinegar for tang.How can I get creative with vegetables?Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. Mushrooms, bok choy, snap peas and water chestnuts…the possibilities are endless!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Leftover beef stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Is it freezer friendly? To freeze, let the stir-fry cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. How do you thaw bread overnight in the refrigerator before reheating?Reheating: The best way to reheat beef stir-fry is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan on freezing the stir-fry, I recommend adding the glaze after you thaw and reheat it. This will prevent the vegetables from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my absolute favorite beef stir-fry recipe! I truly hope you give it a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so much fun to customize with your own favorite vegetables and flavors. If you’re looking for other quick and easy dinner ideas, be sure to check out my other stir-fry recipes! And if you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your own creative variations. Happy cooking, friends!
Beef Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef sirloin thinly sliced
- 1 cup Broccoli florets
- 1 cup Bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup Carrots (sliced)
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Stir-fry beef in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
- Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots; stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch. Pour over beef and vegetables; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
