Description
Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
1 lb flank steak, sliced
4 green onions, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp brown sugar
Instructions:
Heat sesame oil in a pan and sear steak slices until cooked through. Remove.
Sauté garlic and green onions, then mix in tamari, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar.
Add beef back into the pan and toss until coated.
Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables.
A balanced blend of sweet and heat! What sides would you serve with this dish?
#AsianBeefStirFry
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Beef: Slice 1 lb of flank steak against the grain into thin, bite-sized strips. This ensures tenderness. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to promote a good sear.
2. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the steak slices in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef to a clean plate.
3. Build the Sauce: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped green onions (reserving some green tops for garnish). Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Quickly stir in 2 tbsp tamari, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
4. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked beef and any accumulated juices to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the beef is thoroughly coated and the sauce has thickened slightly and glazes the meat.
Serving Suggestions
This stir-fry is a perfect centerpiece for a quick weeknight meal. Serve it hot over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully. A simple side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy complements the dish beautifully. Garnish with the reserved green onion tops and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and visual appeal.
How-to Summary
Thinly slice flank steak against the grain. Sear beef in hot sesame oil and set aside. Sauté garlic and green onions in the same pan. Add tamari, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar to create the sauce. Return beef to pan, toss to coat, and serve immediately with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives. For a more budget-friendly option, use ground beef, cooking it until browned before proceeding with the sauce step.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. You can add a pinch at the end to adjust the heat level to your preference.
Is tamari different from soy sauce? Tamari is a gluten-free Japanese soy sauce with a slightly richer, less salty flavor. Regular soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce can be used as a direct substitute.
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely. Add bell peppers, sliced carrots, or mushrooms when sautéing the garlic. For quicker-cooking veggies like spinach, add them just before returning the beef to the pan.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Slicing Against the Grain: Cutting with the grain will result in tough, chewy beef.
- Crowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once steams it instead of searing it. Cook in batches for the best texture.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Sauté it over medium heat just until fragrant, not browned.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Once you add the liquid ingredients, the process is quick. Overcooking can reduce the sauce too much and make it overly salty.
Conclusion
This Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry is a testament to how a handful of simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes. The key lies in proper technique: slicing the meat correctly, achieving a good sear, and building the sauce in the same pan to capture all the flavor. It’s a versatile, satisfying dish that you can easily adapt to your taste and what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try for a guaranteed flavorful dinner that will become a regular in your rotation.