Introduction
Stir-frying is a vibrant cooking technique that captures the essence of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This beef stir-fry recipe combines tender marinated beef with crisp vegetables and a fantastic black bean sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the beef marinade:
– 300g (10½ oz) rib-eye or rump steak
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– A pinch of Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch)
For the sauce:
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice wine
– Approximately 5 tablespoons chicken stock, water, beer, or lager
For the stir-fry:
– 2 teaspoons salted fermented black soybeans
– 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– 3 cm (1¼ inch) piece of fresh root ginger, peeled and finely chopped
– ½ brown onion, sliced
– ½ green or red pepper, sliced
– 1 spring onion, roughly chopped, plus extra for garnish (optional)
– 3 cavolo nero or kale leaves, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped fresh coriander, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the beef
Flatten the beef slices using a meat mallet, the side of a heavy knife, or a rolling pin, then finely slice into strips. In a small bowl, mix together the sesame oil, sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and cornflour. Place the beef in a large bowl and massage the marinade into the meat until well covered, ensuring no sauce remains at the bottom of the bowl.
Make the sauce
In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice wine, and your choice of chicken stock, water, beer, or lager. Mix well and set aside.
Prepare the black bean mixture
Place the fermented black soybeans in a small bowl and cover with boiling water (about 2–3 tablespoons). Let them soak for about 10 minutes. Drain through a sieve, then crush the beans in a mortar and pestle with the garlic and ginger until you have a coarse paste. Transfer back to the bowl.
Stir-fry the vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until smoking hot. Add the onions, peppers, and spring onion. Cook for 1 minute, then add the cavolo nero or kale and continue to stir-fry for another minute. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl to make space for the beef.
Cook the beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok and heat until smoking hot. Add the marinated beef to the wok, pressing down with a spatula to separate the pieces. Allow the beef to sear for 30 seconds to 1 minute without turning, then flip and sear the other side in the same manner.
Combine and finish
Once the beef is browned on both sides, add the black bean mixture and stir-fry for 1 minute. Return the cooked vegetables to the wok. Ensure the wok is at high heat before pouring in the prepared sauce. Bring to a vigorous boil and cook while stirring for another minute.
Serve
Garnish with additional spring onion or fresh coriander, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Beef Selection
Rib-eye or rump steak is recommended for a tender texture.
Vegetable Substitute
You can replace cavolo nero with any leafy green like spinach or bok choy.
Cooking Heat
Ensure the wok is hot before adding ingredients for optimal stir-frying.
Black Soybeans
Fermented black soybeans can be found in Asian grocery stores and provide a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating is the process of soaking food in a mixture to enhance its flavor and tenderness. The beef is marinated in a combination of sesame oil, sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and cornflour to infuse it with rich flavors before cooking.
Soaking
Soaking the fermented black soybeans in boiling water softens them and helps release their flavors. This is an essential step before crushing them into a paste with garlic and ginger.
Stir-frying
Stir-frying is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly at high heat in a small amount of oil. This typically requires constant stirring to ensure even cooking. Vegetables are stir-fried first to maintain their crunch and flavor before adding the beef.
Sealing
Sealing refers to the process of searing the beef to create a browned, caramelized surface which locks in moisture and flavor. This is done by cooking it at high heat without movement for a short time on each side.
Combining
After cooking the beef, it is combined with the black bean mixture and stir-fried quickly to integrate all the flavors. The prepared sauce is added at the end to finish cooking, ensuring that it thickens and coats the ingredients.
FAQ
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Rib-eye or rump steak is recommended for its flavor and tenderness.
Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or carrots depending on your preference.
Is it necessary to use fermented black soybeans?
While they add a distinct flavor, you can omit them or use a substitute like black bean sauce for a similar taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
What can I serve this dish with?
This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This beef stir-fry showcases the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, combining marinated beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich sauce. The balance of sweet, savory, and umami notes brings the dish to life, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Enjoy it served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete culinary experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Stir-Fry
Substitute beef with chicken breast or thigh, using the same marinade and cooking methods for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Stir-Fry
Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh and mix in a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, using vegetarian oyster sauce.
Seafood Stir-Fry
Use shrimp, squid, or scallops instead of beef. Marinate for a shorter time and pair with garlic and lime for a fresh twist.
Spicy Szechuan Beef
Add Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes to the marinade and sauce for an extra kick.
Beef and Broccoli
Incorporate steamed broccoli into the dish, enhancing the nutritional value while complementing the beef’s flavors.
Honey Garlic Beef
Blend honey into the sauce for a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements of the dish.
Beef Fajitas
Use the marinated beef in a tortilla wrap with sautéed bell peppers and onions, serving with salsa and guacamole for a vibrant meal.
