Beijing Beef Stir Fry

This Beijing Beef Stir Fry brings the delicious flavors of a classic Chinese takeout dish right to your kitchen. With its crispy, marinated beef and a sweet-spicy sauce, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests. The combination of bell peppers and onions adds vibrant color and crunch, making this dish both appealing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy sauce elevates the beef and vegetables, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: The balance of flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
• High-Protein Meal: Packed with protein from the beef, this dish is a great option for a hearty dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Beijing Beef Stir Fry, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: A wok allows for even heat distribution and high-temperature cooking, perfect for stir-frying.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for marinating the beef and mixing sauces without mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the flank steak and veggies for optimal texture.

Ingredients

This Beijing Beef Stir Fry features crispy, marinated beef tossed in a sweet, spicy, and sticky sauce with bell peppers and onions. A perfect Chinese takeout favorite made right at home!

Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, cut into ¼-inch strips
– ¼ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp white pepper
– 1 tbsp light soy sauce
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 egg white, beaten
– ¼ cup cornstarch (for dusting beef)
– ¼ cup peanut oil (for frying)
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 white onion, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup water
– 2 tbsp light soy sauce
– ¼ tbsp oyster sauce
– ¼ cup hoisin sauce
– ¼ cup sugar
– 2 tsp chili paste
– 1 tsp red chili flakes
– 3 tbsp ketchup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tbsp water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Beijing Beef Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Cut the flank steak across the grain into ¼-inch strips. In a bowl, mix beef with baking soda, white pepper, soy sauce, cornstarch, and egg white. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Cut the bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside until needed.

Step 3: Whisk Together Sauce Ingredients

In another bowl, combine water, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, chili paste, red pepper flakes, ketchup, and vinegar. Mix well and set aside for later use.

Step 4: Make the Slurry

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Set this aside as well; it will help thicken your sauce.

Step 5: Heat Oil in Wok

Heat peanut oil in your wok to about 350°F (175°C). Make sure it’s hot enough for frying but not smoking.

Step 6: Fry the Beef

Coat marinated beef strips with ¼ cup cornstarch. Fry in two batches for about 3–4 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove each batch and drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Carefully remove excess oil from the wok leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add bell peppers, onions, and garlic; stir-fry on high heat for about 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 8: Combine Beef with Sauce

Add the crispy beef back into the wok. Pour over the prepared sauce while tossing everything together to coat evenly. Stir your slurry before adding it to the center of the wok to thicken up your dish.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Serve immediately with steamed rice for an authentic experience that will satisfy any craving!

How to Serve Beijing Beef Stir Fry

Beijing Beef Stir Fry is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right can enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions for this popular Chinese takeout favorite.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that balances the sweet and spicy flavors of the stir fry. A bowl of fluffy rice helps soak up the sticky sauce.

Over Noodles

• Serve your Beijing Beef Stir Fry over cooked noodles for a heartier meal. Rice noodles or egg noodles work particularly well, adding another layer of texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, serve the stir fry in crisp lettuce leaves. This option adds crunch and makes for a fun, interactive dining experience.

With Extra Sauce

• Drizzle additional hoisin or chili sauce over the top just before serving. This boosts the flavor and adds an extra layer of spice for those who enjoy it hot.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide portions into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. Pair each serving with rice or noodles to keep it satisfying.

How to Perfect Beijing Beef Stir Fry

To achieve the best results with your Beijing Beef Stir Fry, consider these handy tips that will elevate your dish.

• Marinate Properly: Allowing the beef to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 20 minutes in the fridge.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that you achieve that crispy texture on the beef while keeping vegetables vibrant.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches prevents steaming and ensures every piece gets crispy. This is key to achieving that perfect texture.

• Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking. This keeps things moving quickly and allows for better control over cooking time.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili paste and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Beijing Beef Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Beijing Beef Stir Fry can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful side that complements the stir fry perfectly, packed with veggies and soy sauce for added taste.

2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch and are great for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.

3. Chinese Broccoli: Lightly steamed or stir-fried Chinese broccoli offers a nutritious and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet beef.

4. Spring Rolls: These light, crispy rolls filled with vegetables make an excellent starter or side dish alongside your main course.

5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that pairs well with Asian flavors.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar provides a cooling effect against the spicy beef.

7. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these green beans add a nutty flavor that complements other dishes beautifully.

8. Chow Mein: Soft noodles stir-fried with vegetables make a filling side that meshes well with any Chinese meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Beijing Beef Stir Fry, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the beef is crucial for flavor. Take the time to let it sit for at least 20 minutes to achieve tenderness and taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much beef at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Work in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
• Not preparing ingredients in advance: Stir-frying happens quickly. Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking to avoid delays.
• Ignoring oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the beef won’t fry properly. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of beef; it should sizzle immediately when added.
• Forgetting the slurry: The slurry thickens your sauce, giving it a glossy finish. Always mix it before adding it to the wok for uniformity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beijing Beef Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beijing Beef Stir Fry

• Freeze portions of Beijing Beef Stir Fry in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beijing Beef Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place stir fry on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beijing Beef Stir Fry?

Beijing Beef Stir Fry is a popular dish featuring crispy marinated beef cooked with bell peppers and onions in a sweet and spicy sauce.

Can I customize the vegetables in Beijing Beef Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out bell peppers and onions for your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase spice levels in Beijing Beef Stir Fry, add more chili paste or red chili flakes according to your taste.

Can I use another type of meat for this stir fry?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with chicken, pork, or tofu if you’re looking for different protein options.

Final Thoughts

Beijing Beef Stir Fry is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various vegetables and proteins. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich flavors right from your kitchen!