Beef Stir Fry Recipe: How To Make It At Home With Peppers And Onions
What To Know
- Serve the beef stir fry with peppers and onions immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.
- Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.
- Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha or chili paste to the marinade or while sautéing the vegetables.
Embark on a culinary adventure with our comprehensive guide on how to make beef stir fry with peppers and onions. This delectable dish, bursting with flavors and textures, is an easy-to-master technique that will impress your taste buds and culinary repertoire. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips to create a mouthwatering stir fry that will tantalize your senses.
Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 yellow onion, cut into thin wedges
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinating the Beef: Enhancing Tenderness
In a large bowl, combine the beef slices, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to enhance its tenderness and flavor absorption.
Preparing the Vegetables: A Symphony of Colors
While the beef marinates, prepare the vegetables. Cut the bell peppers into thin strips and the onion into thin wedges. Chop the green onions and cilantro. These vibrant colors will add visual and nutritional value to your stir fry.
Searing the Beef: Creating a Flavorful Base
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef and sear it in batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook until the beef is browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the center, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove the seared beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables: A Burst of Aromas
In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and onions. Sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables begin to soften and brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The aroma of sautéed vegetables will fill your kitchen with an irresistible allure.
Combining Ingredients: A Culinary Masterpiece
Return the seared beef to the skillet along with the sautéed vegetables. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Incorporate the chopped green onions and cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Seasoning to Perfection: Balancing Flavors
Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add additional soy sauce or rice vinegar for a bolder flavor, or sesame oil for a nutty richness. The key is to create a harmonious balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Serving with Style: A Culinary Presentation
Serve the beef stir fry with peppers and onions immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with additional green onions or cilantro. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will create an irresistible invitation to indulge.
The Joy of Leftovers: A Culinary Treat
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. Enjoy the flavors of your culinary creation all over again.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for this stir fry?
A: Yes, you can use other tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin, ribeye, or top round. However, flank steak is a popular choice due to its leanness and affordability.
Q: How do I make my stir fry extra spicy?
A: Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha or chili paste to the marinade or while sautéing the vegetables. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or baby corn. The possibilities are endless.
Q: What are some side dishes that pair well with beef stir fry?
A: Steamed rice, noodles, or a simple green salad are all excellent accompaniments to beef stir fry.
Q: How can I store my stir fry leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.
