Description
Beef & Snow Pea Stir-Fry
Ingredients
1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
2 cups snow peas, trimmed
1 medium onion, sliced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp ground ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
Directions
Marinate the beef:
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and ground ginger. Add the sliced steak, toss to coat, and let marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the beef:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté the veggies:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the snow peas and cook for another 2 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine and finish:
Return the beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through and coated in the sauce.
Serve:
Serve hot over jasmine rice, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your flank steak is partially frozen for 30 minutes before slicing; this makes it easier to cut into thin, uniform strips against the grain. For the marinade, whisk the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and ginger in a bowl until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This prevents clumping. When stir-frying, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which steams the beef instead of searing it. Have all your vegetables prepped and within reach, as the cooking process is very fast.
Serving Suggestions
While jasmine rice is a classic base, this stir-fry is versatile. For a lower-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also spoon it into crisp lettuce cups for a refreshing, hands-on meal. To round out the dinner, pair it with a simple side like a cucumber salad or egg drop soup. For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts in addition to the green onion garnish.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 20-minute meal involves thinly slicing beef against the grain and marinating it in a savory sauce. Quickly sear the beef in a very hot wok or skillet until browned, then remove. Sauté onion, garlic, and snow peas in the same pan until tender-crisp. Return the beef to the pan, toss everything together to heat through and coat in the glossy sauce, and serve immediately over rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives. Just ensure they are sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is a gluten-free brand.
Can I prepare this stir-fry ahead of time?
You can marinate the beef and chop the vegetables ahead, but cook just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Use hoisin sauce mixed with a teaspoon of soy sauce, or a vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a similar savory depth.
My sauce turned out too thick. How can I fix it?
Thin it with a tablespoon or two of beef broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not skip marinating time, as it tenderizes the beef and builds flavor. Do not add the cornstarch directly to the dry beef; always dissolve it in the liquid marinade first. Do not overcook the snow peas; they should remain bright green and crisp. Finally, do not use a cold pan or insufficient heat—your wok or skillet must be very hot before adding the meat to achieve a proper sear.
Conclusion
This Beef & Snow Pea Stir-Fry is the ultimate weeknight winner, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes. The combination of savory marinade, tender beef, and crisp vegetables is both satisfying and nutritious. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common errors, you can master this versatile dish. It’s a reliable recipe that you can easily adapt with different proteins or vegetables, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!