Easy Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry Recipes

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Tenderized beef and vegetable stir fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknights. The tender beef slices, paired with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, are cooked in a savory sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be served over rice or noodles, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients
For the Beef:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking soda (for tenderizing)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

For the Vegetables:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, thinly sliced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Method

  1. Prepare the Beef:
    • In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and baking soda. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. The baking soda helps tenderize the beef, making it melt-in-your-mouth soft.
  2. Cook the Vegetables:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
  3. Stir Fry the Beef:
    • In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the marinated beef slices over high heat for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce:
    • In the pan, add the garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, beef broth, and cornstarch. Pour this sauce into the pan, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
  5. Combine:
    • Return the cooked vegetables and beef to the pan, tossing everything in the sauce until evenly coated. Stir for another minute to ensure the flavors combine well.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Variations & Tips

  • Protein Options:
    Swap beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for different versions of this stir fry. The tenderizing method can be used for any type of meat.
  • Vegetable Choices:
    Feel free to use your favorite vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn. This dish works well with any combination of seasonal produce.
  • Spice it Up:
    Add a dash of chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili oil on top for extra heat.
  • Marinating Time:
    If you have time, marinate the beef for up to an hour. The longer the beef marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
  • Meal Prep:
    This stir fry is great for meal prepping. Cook a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion
Tenderized beef and vegetable stir fry is a simple yet delightful dish that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of tender beef and crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce, makes this recipe a family favorite. With the flexibility to customize the ingredients and the convenience of a quick cooking process, it’s perfect for any home cook looking to whip up something delicious in no time.

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