Beef Stir Fry

Beef stir fry became a go-to dinner in my kitchen when I needed something colorful quick and packed with flavor without relying on takeout. One night I tossed together some sliced beef and leftover veggies with a simple sauce and was shocked at how something so easy could be this good. The balance of savory-sweet sauce with crisp-tender vegetables was exactly what I was craving.

Now I make this beef stir fry regularly switching up the vegetables based on what’s in the fridge and always ending up with a meal that feels fresh hearty and homemade. It’s my favorite way to sneak in extra veggies and satisfy those stir fry cravings in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Thinly sliced beef (flank or sirloin) – Quick-cooking and tender in stir fry sauces.
• Broccoli – A classic stir fry veggie that adds texture and color.
• Carrots – Add natural sweetness and crunch.
• Bell peppers – Bring vibrant color and a juicy bite.
• Snap peas or snow peas – Offer crispness and a fresh green pop.
• Garlic – Builds bold flavor in the sauce base.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and that signature stir fry depth.
• Soy sauce – The base of the savory sauce.
• Oyster sauce – Adds rich umami and just a hint of sweetness.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and tenderize the beef.
• Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with subtle sweetness.
• Sesame oil – Finishes the dish with a toasty nutty flavor.
• Vegetable oil – For stir frying everything quickly and evenly.
• Sesame seeds – Optional garnish that adds crunch and visual appeal.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok – Ideal for high heat stir frying and quick cooking.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For prepping all your veggies and slicing beef thinly.
• Mixing bowls – For marinating the beef and mixing the sauce.
• Tongs or spatula – To toss ingredients while cooking.
• Measuring spoons – For keeping the sauce well-balanced.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

I start by tossing the beef slices in a little soy sauce cornstarch and sesame oil. I let it sit for 10–15 minutes while prepping everything else. This makes the beef extra tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl I whisk together soy sauce oyster sauce brown sugar garlic and ginger. I keep it nearby because once the cooking starts things move fast.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Veggies

I heat oil in a hot skillet or wok and quickly stir fry the broccoli carrots peppers and peas for about 3–4 minutes until they’re just tender but still crisp. Then I transfer them to a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

I add a bit more oil and toss in the marinated beef cooking in a single layer so it browns nicely. It only takes a couple of minutes to cook through.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Combine

Once the beef is ready I pour in the stir fry sauce and let it simmer for a minute to thicken slightly. Then I return the veggies to the pan and toss everything together until coated and hot.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

I drizzle in a bit of sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds. It’s ready to serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips

Use high heat and cook fast that’s the key to a good stir fry.

Slice beef thinly across the grain for the most tender bites.

Prep all your ingredients ahead of time once the heat is on, there’s no stopping.

Add a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.

Ways to Serve

Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice for a classic pairing.

Spoon over cooked noodles for a delicious twist.

Pack leftovers into meal prep containers for easy lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What beef is best for Beef Stir Fry?

Flank steak or sirloin work great because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thin.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Beef Stir Fry?

Yes just thaw them first and stir fry briefly to avoid sogginess.

Can I make Beef Stir Fry ahead of time?

You can prep all the components ahead and cook fresh when ready—or store leftovers for up to 3 days.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this beef stir fry and see just how easy and tasty it can be! It’s colorful quick and packed with bold flavor in every bite. Let me know how you customize yours or which veggies you throw in I’d love to hear about it!

Happy Cooking!

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