This easy beef stir fry is a quick and tasty meal that comes together in no time! With tender strips of beef and colorful veggies, it’s as good as it is pretty.
I love how I can toss in whatever veggies I have on hand. Plus, if I’m in a hurry, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that leaves me feeling both satisfied and happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: For the best results, I recommend using sirloin or flank steak. They’re tender and have great flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap in chicken or tofu for a delicious alternative.
Vegetables: Broccoli and bell peppers add color and a satisfying crunch. Feel free to use other veggies like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini based on what’s fresh or in your fridge!
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must for that umami taste. If you’re gluten-free, check for tamari instead. The oyster sauce adds depth; you can leave it out for a vegetarian option or use mushroom sauce as a substitute.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use other oils, but a dash of peanut oil could mimic the flavor well.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Tender?
To achieve tender beef strips, slicing it against the grain is crucial. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which shortens them and makes chewing easier. It’s a simple technique that enhances your stir fry’s texture.
- Take your time when slicing the beef to ensure even pieces.
- Don’t overcook the beef; it only needs a few minutes in the skillet before you add everything else.
What’s the Secret to Crisp Vegetables?
For crisp-tender vegetables, stir-fry them on high heat for a short time. This technique allows them to retain their natural flavor and beautiful color.
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the veggies.
- Keep the veggies moving in the pan to prevent burning and to cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—stir-fry in batches if necessary.
Using these tips, your easy beef stir fry will not only be quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor and texture! Enjoy!
Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy beef stir fry takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need roughly 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick meal for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Thinly slice the beef against the grain, which helps it stay tender when you cook it.
2. Make Your Stir Fry Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and beef broth or water. This sauce will add lots of flavor to your stir fry. Set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef to the hot oil and stir-fry it for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s browned but not fully cooked. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, stir-frying for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. This step adds a lovely base flavor to the dish.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, add the broccoli and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they become crisp-tender, keeping their vibrant color.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir fry sauce over the mixture and stir everything together to coat the beef and veggies evenly.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the beef and vegetables.
8. Final Seasoning:
Give the stir fry a taste and add salt and pepper to your liking. You want the flavors to pop!
9. Serve It Up:
Serve your delicious stir fry hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Enjoy each bite of this quick and flavorful meal!
Your easy beef stir fry is ready to delight your taste buds with its fresh, crunchy vegetables and tender strips of beef!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on how quickly they cook!
Can I Substitute the Beef for Another Protein?
Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be great substitutes for beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose. For instance, chicken and shrimp cook quickly, while tofu should be fried until golden for added texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and omitting the oyster sauce or replacing it with a gluten-free alternative. Ensure that your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or sauté them quickly in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Just a splash of water may help loosen the sauce while reheating!