This beef stir fry is a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s packed with colorful vegetables and tender beef, making it a visually appealing dish too. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Beef Stir Fry
This stir fry is not only fast to make, but it also features everyday ingredients you’ll likely have on hand. It’s a family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy, from the youngest to the oldest! You can customize it based on your family’s favorite vegetables or sauces, making it versatile and fun.
How to Make Beef Stir Fry
Cooking this stir fry is simple and requires minimal prep. You’ll quickly fry up the beef and veggies and toss in a tasty sauce for flavor. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time!
What You Need
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Step-by-Step
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced beef and stir fry until browned, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the beef and veggie mix, stir well, and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles.
How to Serve Beef Stir Fry
This stir fry is delicious over steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Pair it with a simple salad for added freshness. You can also add some sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. This dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends.
How to Store Beef Stir Fry
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Recipe Tips
- Cut the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Use your favorite vegetables; they can be fresh or frozen!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; stir frying works best in batches.
- Adjust the sauce to taste; add more soy sauce for saltiness or more ginger for spiciness.
- If using cornstarch, mix it well to avoid clumps in the sauce.
Variations & Swaps
- For a lighter version, swap the beef for chicken or tofu.
- Add a bit of spice by including some red pepper flakes.
- Use broccoli, carrots, or any other veggies your family loves, like snap peas or zucchini.
- For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Try adding a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy depth of flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can. Prepare the beef and vegetables and store them separately in the fridge. Cook them fresh when you’re ready for a meal to keep everything tender and crispy.
Is it okay to freeze stir fry?
Absolutely! Just let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking and keep it juicy.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
How do I avoid overcooking the vegetables?
Keep an eye on the cooking time and remember to stir frequently. Vegetables should be tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients!
Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced Cut against the grain for tenderness
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For frying
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas) Use your favorite fresh or frozen vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Add flavor
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced For added flavor
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce Or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce Optional for umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) For thickening, mix well to avoid clumps
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving Presentation base
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced beef and stir fry until browned, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the beef and veggie mix, stir well, and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles.
