20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.

If you’re on the lookout for a quick and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor, look no further than this 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender flank steak with a medley of colorful vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce that features a delightful kick from gochujang and Thai red curry paste. The addition of fresh basil and toasted sesame oil elevates the dish, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality stir fry that is sure to impress your family or guests!

Why It Works Every Time

This 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry is a winning recipe for several reasons. First, the use of flank steak ensures that the meat cooks quickly and stays tender. The combination of gochujang and Thai red curry paste brings a unique depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Additionally, the quick cooking time allows the vegetables to retain their crunch, providing a satisfying contrast to the juicy beef. Lastly, the fresh basil adds a fragrant note that brightens the dish, making it irresistible.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this delicious stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2-3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons + 1/4 cup pickled ginger juice
• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• chili flakes (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil
• 3 cups mixed chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil or Thai basil

Cook’s Kit

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools:

• Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir-frying, allowing for even cooking.
• Sharp knife – For slicing the flank steak and vegetables with ease.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface to prep your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients together.

20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.: How It’s Done

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the gochujang, Thai red curry paste, tamari or soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and pickled ginger juice. Whisk together until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Wok

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil or olive oil, swirling to coat the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Onion

Add the thinly sliced yellow onion to the hot wok. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Step 4: Add the Beef

Increase the heat to high and add the thinly sliced flank steak. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Toss in the Vegetables

Add the mixed chopped vegetables to the wok. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Pour in the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the sauce evenly coats the mixture.

Step 7: Finish with Basil and Sesame Seeds

Remove the wok from heat and stir in the fresh basil and sesame seeds. Add chili flakes to taste for an extra kick.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the stir fry hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry!

Make It Year-Round

This stir fry is incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it no matter the season. Here are a few tips to keep it fresh year-round:

• Seasonal Vegetables – Use whatever vegetables are in season, like asparagus in spring or root vegetables in winter.
• Protein Swaps – Substitute flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
• Herb Variations – Experiment with other herbs such as cilantro or mint if basil is not available.
• Spice Level – Adjust the amount of gochujang and chili flakes based on your heat preference.

What Could Go Wrong

Even though this 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry is simple, a few things could go awry:

• Overcooking the Beef – Be careful not to overcook the flank steak, as it can become tough. Cook just until browned.
• Too Many Vegetables – Overcrowding the wok can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Balance of Flavors – Adjust the sauce ingredients to taste; if it’s too salty, add a bit of sugar or honey to balance it out.
• Burning the Sauce – Make sure to keep the heat at medium-high when adding the sauce to avoid burning.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your leftovers of 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry fresh, follow these guidelines:

Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the texture of the vegetables and beef.

• Freezing – While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just ensure it’s thinly sliced for quick cooking.

What if I don’t have gochujang?

If gochujang isn’t available, you can substitute it with a mix of red chili paste and a touch of sugar for sweetness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of fish sauce for a vegetarian option.

What’s the best way to serve this stir fry?

This stir fry is delicious served over steamed rice, quinoa, or even rice noodles. You can also enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal!

If you enjoyed this , you might also love these crowd-pleasers:

Time to Try It

Now that you have everything you need to create this delicious 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry, it’s time to get cooking! With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you are feeding a family or enjoying a meal solo, this stir fry is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Happy cooking!