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Homemade Beef Stir Fry photo

Beef Stir Fry

This Beef Stir Fry is a colorful, quick, and flavorful dish that brings tender beef and crisp vegetables to your dinner table!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: Beef, Easy, Quick, Stir-Fry
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Beef Stir Fry:

  • 1 pound lean beef (sirloin or flank steak) cut against the grain into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons oil (avocado oil is recommended for high-heat cooking)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh garlic minced
  • 1 large carrot thinly sliced at a diagonal
  • 2 cups snow peas ends trimmed
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (white button or cremini)
  • 1 cup bean sprouts or other vegetable of choice

For the Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce (for gluten-free or paleo, use coconut aminos)
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (or sugar-free alternative for low sugar or paleo)
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Prepare the Sauce - In a bowl, whisk together the tamari or soy sauce, water, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, toasted sesame oil, black pepper, and cornstarch. Mix until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and set this sauce aside.
  • Step 2: Marinate the Beef - If you have time, marinate the beef strips in a small amount of the sauce for about 15-30 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the beef.
  • Step 3: Heat the Pan - Heat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. Ensure the oil is hot before you add the beef.
  • Step 4: Cook the Beef - Add the marinated beef strips to the pan in a single layer. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
  • Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics - In the same pan, add the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
  • Step 6: Add the Vegetables - Toss in the sliced carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
  • Step 7: Combine Everything - Return the beef to the pan. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring that everything is coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
  • Step 8: Add Bean Sprouts - Finally, add the bean sprouts (or your vegetable of choice) and stir for another minute until they are slightly wilted but still crunchy.

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain vegetable texture.
  • Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!