This Spicy Beef Stir-Fry with Bulgur & Zucchini Garnish is a savory, protein-packed dish featuring tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful soy-based sauce. Served with garlicky bulgur, zucchini, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a hearty and nutritious meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 3-4
Ingredients
For the Beef Stir-Fry:
- 500g beef, sliced thinly
- ½ tsp baking soda (for tenderizing)
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 200ml broth (beef or vegetable)
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
For the Garnish:
- 1 tbsp bulgur
- ½ zucchini, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Leeks, sliced thinly
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- In a bowl, mix sliced beef with baking soda, flour, rice vinegar, and soy sauce.
- Let it marinate for 10 minutes to tenderize the meat.
- Step 2: Cook the Garnish
- Heat a small pan over medium heat with a little oil.
- Sauté garlic and leeks for 1 minute.
- Add zucchini and tomato, cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in bulgur and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3: Cook the Stir-Fry
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add marinated beef and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef and set aside.
- Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add onion, garlic, chili pepper, red and green bell peppers.
- Stir-fry for 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5: Make the Sauce & Combine
- In a bowl, mix broth, cornstarch, and 1 tbsp soy sauce.
- Pour into the pan and stir well.
- Add the cooked beef back and stir for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Plate the beef stir-fry with the bulgur-zucchini garnish.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with extra soy sauce or chili oil for more spice.
- Pair with a side of stir-fried greens or kimchi.
- Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Marinate beef with baking soda to keep it tender.
- Cook on high heat for a proper stir-fry texture.
- For a smoky flavor, add a splash of sesame oil at the end.
- Use beef broth for deeper umami flavor.
- For extra crunch, stir in some cashews or peanuts.
Nutritional Benefits
- Beef is high in protein & iron.
- Bell peppers provide vitamin C & antioxidants.
- Garlic & chili help boost immunity.
- Bulgur is rich in fiber and supports digestion.
Dietary Information
- High-protein & gluten-free (if using gluten-free soy sauce)
- Dairy-free
- Low-carb option available (replace bulgur with cauliflower rice)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze beef stir-fry for up to 1 month (bulgur is best eaten fresh).
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory, and full of umami flavors.
- Quick & easy to make in under 40 minutes.
- Perfect for meal prep and packed with protein.
- A balance of spice, crunch, and tender beef.
Conclusion
This Spicy Beef Stir-Fry with Bulgur & Zucchini Garnish is a flavorful and wholesome dish that brings together tender marinated beef, crispy bell peppers, and a rich soy-based sauce. Served with a healthy bulgur and zucchini mix, this meal is easy, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Try it today and enjoy a homemade, restaurant-quality stir-fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different protein? Yes! Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Can I skip the baking soda? Yes, but it helps tenderize the beef.
- How do I make it spicier? Add extra chili flakes or Sriracha.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- What can I substitute for bulgur? Use quinoa, brown rice, or couscous.
- How do I thicken the sauce more? Add extra cornstarch mixed with cold water.
- Can I air-fry the beef instead? Yes! Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 8 minutes.
- What’s the best way to cut the beef? Slice against the grain for tenderness.
- Can I make this lower in sodium? Use low-sodium soy sauce.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes! Just stir-fry in batches for best results.