Craving a tasty meal but short on time? Garlic Chili Beef Stir-Fry delivers big flavor in just 15 minutes! You’ll learn how to marinate flank steak and mix fresh veggies with a kick. Plus, I’ll share some quick tips for perfect beef and tasty variations! Join me to whip up a delicious dinner that impresses without the stress!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
When you gather your ingredients, remember that flank steak is the star. This cut is tender and cooks quickly, making it perfect for stir-frying. Minced garlic and ginger add a punch of flavor. The bell peppers and broccoli bring color and crunch. For sauces, soy sauce and oyster sauce add depth, while chili garlic sauce gives that spicy kick.
Optional Garnishes
– Green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds
Garnishes make your dish pop. Chopped green onions add freshness, while sesame seeds give a nice crunch. These simple touches elevate your meal, making it not just tasty but also beautiful. You will love how easy it is to create a dish that looks gourmet!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
– Marinating the flank steak: Start by taking 1 pound of thinly sliced flank steak. Place it in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the beef soak up flavor.
– Preparing vegetables: While the beef marinates, get your veggies ready. Slice 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper. Cut 1 cup of broccoli into small florets. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger. Keep these close; you will use them soon.
Cooking Process
– Heating the oil: Grab a large skillet or wok. Pour in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Heat it over high heat until it shimmers. This means it’s ready for cooking.
– Stir-frying the beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes. Cook until the beef is browned and nearly done. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
– Sautéing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds. This will release their strong aromas. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes. You want them to stay tender-crisp.
– Combining ingredients and finishing: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour in the chili garlic sauce to your taste. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes. This will heat it all through and mix the flavors well.
Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Beef
– Cooking time tips: Cook the beef for just 3-4 minutes. High heat helps sear it fast. This keeps the meat juicy and tender. Avoid overcooking; it can become tough.
– Slice thickness recommendations: Cut the flank steak very thin, about 1/4 inch. This helps it cook evenly and quickly. Thin slices absorb flavors better too.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adjusting spice levels: If you like heat, add more chili garlic sauce. Start with one tablespoon and taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
– Recommended sauces combinations: Combine soy sauce and oyster sauce for depth. These pair well with the garlic and chili flavors. You can also try adding a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
Variations
Vegetable Options
You can switch out the vegetables in this stir-fry for more flavor. Try using snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. These veggies add nice crunch and color. You can also use seasonal vegetables. In spring, add asparagus. In fall, use squash or sweet potatoes. The goal is to keep it fresh and tasty.
Protein Alternatives
If you want to change the protein, chicken works well. Thinly slice boneless chicken breasts and follow the same steps. For a vegetarian option, use tofu. Press and cube the tofu, then add it at the same time as the beef. This way, it absorbs the sauce and flavors. Both options give you variety while keeping the meal quick and easy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your Garlic Chili Beef Stir-Fry, store your leftovers safely.
– Refrigeration instructions: Place the stir-fry in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools before sealing the container.
– Freezing tips: If you want to save it longer, freeze the stir-fry. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your stir-fry again, you need to reheat it well.
– Best methods to retain flavor and texture: The best way to reheat is in a skillet. Heat it over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce. Stir it often. This keeps it juicy and tasty. You can also use a microwave. Put it in a bowl, cover it loosely, and heat for a minute or two, stirring halfway. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
What can I serve with Garlic Chili Beef Stir-Fry?
You can pair Garlic Chili Beef Stir-Fry with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Steamed jasmine rice
– Fried rice with peas and carrots
– Quinoa for a healthy twist
– Noodles tossed in sesame oil
– A simple green salad with dressing
These sides will balance the bold flavors of the stir-fry. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for a crunchy, tangy touch.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you have several choices:
– For a milder dish, reduce the chili garlic sauce to one teaspoon.
– Add a splash of coconut milk or more soy sauce to cool the heat.
– If you love spice, increase the chili garlic sauce. You can also add sliced fresh chilies.
Taste as you go to find the right heat for you. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep some parts in advance:
– Slice the beef and veggies a day before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
– Marinate the beef for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
– Cook the stir-fry fresh when you are ready to eat. This keeps it crisp and tasty.
You can also double the recipe for meal prep. Just store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove for best results.
This blog post covered a simple and tasty garlic chili beef stir-fry. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect meals. You can switch up veggies or proteins based on your taste. Storing leftovers? It’s easy with proper refrigeration or freezing. Flavor adjustments are simple, making this meal your own. With the right prep, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and fun to make. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!
