Few dishes combine simplicity and indulgence quite like a Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry. With its tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and a rich, flavorful sauce, this recipe brings elegance to your dining table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish showcases how quality ingredients and straightforward techniques can create a culinary masterpiece.
The rich combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and butter creates a velvety coating for the tender beef, while the garlic adds a fragrant depth. This stir-fry embodies the best of both worlds: the quick cooking style of stir-frying and the decadent flavors of fine dining.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Beef tenderloin has been prized in kitchens around the world for centuries due to its unparalleled tenderness and ability to absorb flavors. This recipe elevates the tenderloin by pairing it with a buttery, umami-rich sauce that enhances its natural flavor.
The simplicity of the ingredients and the versatility of the recipe make it a timeless classic. It’s a dish that adapts easily to different palates and occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Its balance of luxurious textures and bold flavors ensures it remains a favorite across generations.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 300 g beef tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1 tsp starch (cornstarch or potato starch, mixed with 2 tbsp water to form a slurry)
For Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the Tenderloin: Cut the beef tenderloin into thin slices, about ½ cm thick. This ensures quick cooking and a tender texture.
- Season the Beef: Lightly season the slices with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let them rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the Butter: Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
- Incorporate the Sauces: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and white sugar to the pan. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add the starch slurry to the pan while stirring. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat.
- Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned but not overcooked.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared garlic butter sauce over the beef. Stir to coat the beef evenly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Beef: Transfer the beef and sauce to a serving dish.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or chopped parsley for an added touch.
- Accompaniments: Serve hot with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of sautéed vegetables.
Tips for Making the Perfect Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for fresh, high-quality tenderloin for the best flavor and texture.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures tender slices that are easy to chew.
- Don’t Overcook: Beef tenderloin cooks quickly; remove it from the heat as soon as it’s cooked to your liking to prevent toughness.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust the soy sauce and oyster sauce quantities to suit your taste for saltiness and umami.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of cooking wine for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
FAQs
1. Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin or flank steak can be used as substitutes, though they may require slightly different cooking times.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or additional olive oil for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I add vegetables to this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli make excellent additions. Stir-fry the vegetables separately and combine them with the beef before adding the sauce.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, garlic bread, or even a simple green salad.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and slice the beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook just before serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the beef’s tenderness.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Avoid using the microwave to reheat, as it may overcook the beef. Use a skillet to maintain the texture and flavor.
Why This Recipe is a Classic
Garlic butter and beef have been a culinary duo for centuries, celebrated for their rich, complementary flavors. This dish highlights the tenderloin’s luxurious texture while adding the bold, fragrant depth of garlic and the umami richness of soy and oyster sauces. It’s a recipe that feels both indulgent and approachable, making it perfect for any occasion.
The timeless appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining. The universal love for tender beef and buttery, garlicky flavors ensures it remains a favorite across cultures and generations.
Conclusion
Creating Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry is more than just cooking—it’s an experience that combines the best of flavors and textures in one dish. With its rich, buttery sauce, tender slices of beef, and subtle hints of garlic and umami, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication.
Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or a special meal for loved ones, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Its timeless appeal ensures it will remain a staple in your kitchen, offering a comforting, flavorful meal time and time again. Try it today, and savor the magic of this classic dish!