Quick & Easy Beef Stir-Fry Recipe: A Flavorful Meal for Busy Nights

Beef stir-fry is a popular and versatile dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners. This quick meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method, you’ll enjoy the tasty results every time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak or tenderloin
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 cups shredded napa cabbage
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time: 25 minutes total
Servings: 4 servings

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the beef. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips and place them in a bowl.
2. In another small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, minced garlic, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water until well combined. Pour this mixture over the sliced beef and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. While your meat is marinating, start preparing the vegetables. Chop up napa cabbage, slice carrots into thin strips, and dice bell peppers into cubes. Place all these ingredients on a cutting board ready for cooking.
4. Heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a wok or large frying pan until it shimmers.
5. Add beef to the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, ensuring that the meat is browned on all sides. Remove the seared beef from the pan and set aside.
6. Clean the wok with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking. Add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the pan, followed by sliced carrots and napa cabbage. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start getting soft but still retain their crispness.
7. Return the beef strips back into the skillet along with diced bell peppers. Toss everything together, adding the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, salt, pepper, and green onions. Cook for another minute or two to allow all flavors to meld together.
8. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Why Beef Stir-Fry?

This dish is more than just a quick meal; it's also healthy! Flank steak is rich in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. The vegetables used here provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C from the bell peppers and beta-carotene found in carrots, while cabbage adds fiber beneficial for digestive health.

Optional Extras

If you prefer a heartier meal, consider serving this beef stir-fry with some noodles or rice. You could also add additional vegetables such as broccoli florets or snap peas to enhance the nutritional profile and variety of flavors in each bite.

To give your dish an extra kick, try adding a touch of hot sauce at the end. Alternatively, a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before serving can elevate its appearance and taste significantly.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Any leftovers from this meal store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days after making them fresh. Reheat gently when ready to eat, either by steaming with a little water or microwaving briefly.

For best results, serve your beef stir-fry hot and accompanied by a side salad or some pickled vegetables if desired.

Conclusion

A well-crafted beef stir-fry doesn't just satisfy the taste buds; it nourishes the body too. Its simplicity means you can experiment with different spices and sauces according to your preference, making it a versatile dish for various occasions ranging from casual weeknight dinners to family gatherings.