Introduction
Beef stir-fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef with crunchy vegetables and a variety of savory sauces. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with textures and tastes, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners. The addition of roasted cashews adds a delightful crunch, while the sweet chili drizzle sauce elevates the entire meal with its zesty kick.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Beef Stir-Fry:
– 1/3 cup roasted cashews, unsalted (or peanuts)
– 1 tablespoon canola oil (or other plain cooking oil)
– 500 g / 1 lb beef mince (ground beef)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 3 tablespoons roughly chopped coriander/cilantro leaves (substitute with green onion)
Sweet Chilli Stir-Fry Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (substitute with cider vinegar)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
Sweet Chilli Drizzle Sauce:
– 1 garlic clove, minced using a garlic crusher
– 3 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice (substitute with rice vinegar when limes are expensive)
– 2 teaspoons fish sauce
Serving:
– 2 batches jasmine rice or other plain rice of choice
– Steamed or fresh vegetables (e.g., chopped cucumber, coriander/cilantro, finely sliced red onion)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This beef stir-fry creation is perfect for those who crave a quick, nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or to adjust the spice levels based on your preferences. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that will surely please everyone at the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Drizzle Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, sweet chilli sauce, lime juice, and fish sauce. Set aside.
Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the sweet chilli sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce. Set aside.
Toast the Cashews
Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the cashews and toast for about 2 minutes until they develop golden spots and emit a nutty aroma. Transfer to a cutting board, let them cool, then roughly chop.
Cook the Beef
In the same pan, heat the canola oil over high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until no longer pink.
Add the Stir-Fry Sauce
Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the beef. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce reduces and caramelizes on the beef, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Assemble the Bowls
Spoon the cooked beef over servings of jasmine rice. Arrange steamed or fresh vegetables on the side. Drizzle the prepared sweet chilli sauce over the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle with the toasted cashews and chopped coriander/cilantro.
Serve
Mix everything together in the bowl to combine the flavors and textures before eating.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
If unsalted roasted cashews are unavailable, peanuts can be used instead. Cider vinegar can substitute rice vinegar if needed.
Cooking Tips
To ensure even cooking, make sure to break up the ground beef thoroughly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to use any fresh vegetables that you prefer or have on hand, such as bell peppers or broccoli.
Cook techniques
Toasting Nuts
Toasting cashews enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add the nuts. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until they turn golden and emit a nutty aroma. Let them cool before chopping.
Stir-Frying
This cooking technique involves cooking food quickly over high heat while stirring continuously. Begin by heating oil in a pan, then add aromatics like onion and garlic. Incorporate meat or vegetables, cooking until done. Pour in sauces towards the end for added flavor.
Preparing Sauces
Mix sauces in bowls before adding them to dishes. This allows for even distribution of flavors. Use a whisk or spoon to combine ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a balanced taste.
Assembling Plates
When serving, layer ingredients for both aesthetics and flavor. Start with a base like rice, then add the main component (like beef), followed by vegetables. Drizzle sauce on top and finish with any garnishes like nuts or herbs.
FAQ
Can I use different nuts instead of cashews?
Yes, peanuts are a great alternative. You can also try almonds or walnuts based on your preference.
What can I use instead of fish sauce?
You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative like mushroom sauce, but this may change the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the stir-fry sauce for an extra kick.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and texture, but any plain rice, such as basmati or white rice, will also work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Conclusion
The Beef Stir-Fry with roasted cashews and sweet chilli sauces results in a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together bold flavors and varied textures. The combination of tender beef, nutty cashews, and fresh vegetables makes for a fulfilling dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Replace the beef with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Use the same stir-fry sauces for flavor.
Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry
Substitute ground beef for ground chicken and follow the same recipe. This variation offers a lighter alternative while maintaining the delicious cashew crunch.
Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry
Use shrimp instead of beef and add extra chili flakes to the stir-fry sauce for heat. Pair with jasmine rice for a great seafood option.
Tofu and Cashew Stir-Fry
For a vegetarian option, swap ground beef with firm tofu, marinated and pan-fried until golden. Follow the same sauce and topping recommendations.
Rice Noodle Stir-Fry
Replace jasmine rice with stir-fried rice noodles, adding the cooked noodles to the beef and tossing everything together with the sauce.
Quinoa Bowl
For a healthier grain, use quinoa instead of rice. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the beef and sauces.
Asian-style Lettuce Wraps
Serve the beef mixture in lettuce leaves instead of rice for a low-carb option, garnishing with cashews and drizzle sauce.
