Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Crispy Sweet & Spicy Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. This dish features tender beef complemented by colorful vegetables, coated in a delicious sauce that balances sweetness and heat. Whether you’re serving it over rice or noodles, this stir-fry is sure to impress family and friends with its bold tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili garlic sauce creates a rich and savory flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch that suits your taste preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with colorful bell peppers and onions, this dish provides essential nutrients while satisfying your cravings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its sweet and spicy flavor makes this stir-fry a hit at parties, family gatherings, or casual dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparation smooth and efficient, having the right tools on hand is crucial. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to create this flavorful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring the beef sears quickly while retaining its juices.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the beef and veggies safely.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes cutting through the beef and vegetables effortless and precise.

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Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
• 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

How to Make Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by marinating the thinly sliced beef in a mixing bowl.
* Add cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice) to the beef.
* Mix well until all pieces are coated evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While the beef marinates, prepare the sauce.
* In another mixing bowl, combine ketchup, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch-water mixture.
* Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Once hot, add the marinated beef in batches to avoid overcrowding.
* Stir-fry until browned and cooked through (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same wok or skillet, add vegetable oil if needed.
* Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
* Then add sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for about 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan with vegetables.
* Pour in the prepared sauce over everything.
* Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once everything is combined and heated through (about 2 more minutes), remove from heat.
Serve your crispy sweet & spicy Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry over rice or noodles for an amazing meal!

How to Serve Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Serving Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will impress your guests and elevate your meal experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the stir-fry over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling and satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a fresh twist, serve the beef stir-fry wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for a fun, hands-on meal.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir-fried beef with cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles. This combination is hearty and complements the flavors perfectly.

Side of Steamed Veggies

• Pair the stir-fry with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas. These veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. This adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch.

How to Perfect Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

To ensure your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Cut against the grain: Slicing the beef against the grain helps keep it tender and easy to chew.

• Marinate briefly: A short marination in soy sauce enhances flavor without making the beef soggy.

• Use high heat: Cooking at high heat ensures a nice sear on the beef, giving it that delightful crispy texture.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can steam rather than fry, affecting texture.

• Add veggies last: Incorporate vegetables towards the end of cooking to maintain their crispness and vibrant colors.

Best Side Dishes for Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

Complementing your Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: Fluffy rice stir-fried with vegetables and eggs adds a tasty carb component to your meal.

2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, garlic, and vinegar balances out the richness of the stir-fry.

3. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with the tender beef.

4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds nutrition and brings an earthy flavor that complements the main dish.

5. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup can be a comforting start before diving into your stir-fry.

6. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with vegetables or lean meat make an excellent side that everyone will love.

7. Asian Slaw: A colorful slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers crunch and zing.

8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled carrots or radishes provide an excellent contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors of the beef stir-fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Always allow the beef to soak in soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When frying, overcrowding the pan can cause steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches to achieve that crispy texture.
• Not Using High Heat: Cooking on low heat won’t give you the characteristic stir-fry sear. Use high heat for quick cooking and great flavor.
• Ignoring Vegetable Timing: Adding all vegetables at once can lead to uneven cooking. Add denser vegetables first and softer ones later for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Adjustments: The sauce’s spice level may not suit everyone. Always taste and adjust ingredients like chili garlic sauce to fit your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?
Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is a savory dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked quickly with colorful vegetables and a sweet-spicy sauce.

How do I customize my Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?
You can easily customize this dish by adding different vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or adjusting the sauce’s spice level.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce for a delicious gluten-free version.

What can I serve with Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry?
Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Sweet & Spicy Beijing-Style Beef Stir-Fry is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!