Discover a flavorful and satisfying lunch with our Tender Beef Stir-Fry recipe. Tender beef slices stir-fried with vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce, served with steaming rice. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal that’s packed with protein and nutrients. Ideal for busy weekdays or a special weekend lunch.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Tender Beef Stir-Fry
This Tender Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner. The beef is marinated in a savory sauce, then stir-fried with colorful vegetables for a well-balanced meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of textures and flavors in one dish, making it a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients for Tender Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced – Choose a high-quality cut for tender results.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds savory umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Provides a rich, slightly sweet taste.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce – Adds depth and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – For a nutty aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds warmth and spice.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced – For color and sweetness.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – Adds color and a mild flavor.
- 1 small broccoli head, cut into florets – For a healthy crunch.
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 onion, sliced – For a touch of sweetness and bite.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – To thicken the sauce.
- Cooked rice or noodles – For serving.
How to Make Tender Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. If there’s excess liquid, drain it off.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the beef. Stir everything together, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thin, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, and stir it into the stir-fry to thicken the sauce. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Beef Stir-Fry
- Cut the Beef Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook quickly and stay tender.
- Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the beef infuses it with flavor and helps tenderize it.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp for the best texture.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.
- Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry: Replace the hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Garlic Beef Stir-Fry: Increase the garlic for a more robust, garlicky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, flank steak or ribeye are also great choices for stir-frying.
What Vegetables Work Well in Stir-Fry?
You can use a variety of vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 35g
This Tender Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a quick, delicious, and healthy meal option that’s perfect for a busy lunch or dinner. With its flavorful marinade, tender beef, and crisp vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.