This beef stir-fry is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender beef slices marinated in soy sauce and black pepper, this recipe brings in the richness of garlic and ginger with the crunch of bell peppers and onions. The rice vinegar adds a subtle tangy finish that complements the savory notes, while green onions add a bright, fresh garnish. The recipe is versatile and easy to adapt based on your pantry ingredients, making it a go-to option for a delicious, Asian-inspired meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb / 450g beef (flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for beef marinade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced or finely grated)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced into thin strips)
• 1/2 poblano pepper (optional, sliced into thin strips)
• 1/2 large onion (sliced)

Sauce

• 2-3 tbsp less sodium soy sauce (to taste)
• 2 tsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar, as a substitute)
• 1/2 tsp brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 cup / 60 ml water (for thickening)

Garnish

• Green onions (optional, chopped for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Marinade

1. Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. In a mixing bowl, add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 egg.
3. Mix well to coat the beef thoroughly. Let the beef marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This quick marinade helps tenderize the beef and adds depth of flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Aromatics

1. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and 1 tbsp fresh ginger.
2. Slice the red bell pepper and optional poblano pepper into thin strips. Thinly slice the onion as well.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix 2-3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tsp rice vinegar, and 1/2 tsp brown sugar.
2. In another bowl, dissolve 1 tbsp cornstarch in 1/4 cup (60 ml) water and set aside. This mixture will thicken the sauce later.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated beef to the pan, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until the beef is browned and almost cooked through.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp olive oil. Adjust heat to medium.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in the sliced onions, red bell pepper, and optional poblano pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the beef and veggies, and stir well.
3. Slowly add the cornstarch-water mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.

Step 7: Serve

1. Once everything is well-mixed, remove the skillet from heat.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, for a fresh, crisp finish.

Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional information will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, flank steak or sirloin work best due to their tenderness, but skirt steak or ribeye can also be used. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh. If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, then coat it with cornstarch to achieve a crispy texture.

3. What if I don’t have poblano peppers?
Poblano peppers are optional and add a mild heat. You can substitute them with green bell peppers, jalapeños (for a bit more heat), or skip them altogether.

4. Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

5. Is there an alternative for cornstarch?
Yes, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as a thickener.

Tips for Making the Best Beef Stir-Fry

1. Prep all ingredients beforehand. Stir-frying is a quick cooking method, so having everything ready ensures smooth and efficient cooking.
2. Cut the beef thinly and against the grain. Slicing against the grain breaks down the muscle fibers, making the beef more tender.
3. Use high heat. Cooking on high heat helps sear the beef quickly, locking in juices without overcooking.
4. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding cools the pan and causes the beef to steam rather than sear. Cook in batches if needed.
5. Adjust sauce to taste. Taste the sauce and adjust the soy sauce or vinegar as needed to suit your preference.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: If you plan to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for best results.

Conclusion

This beef stir-fry with bell peppers and ginger is a versatile, delicious dish that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for guests. With a balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, this meal is sure to be a family favorite. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal. Follow these tips and storage suggestions to enjoy this dish anytime, even on the busiest nights.