Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a vibrant stir fry, especially when it’s loaded with tender beef and fresh vegetables. Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables is the perfect dish to whip up when you’re craving a quick, delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity, yet delivers a dish that feels special enough for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of technique, you’ll find that this dish is as rewarding to make as it is to eat.

The Upside of Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables

Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables is not just about flavor; it’s also about nutrition and convenience. This dish is packed with colorful veggies, providing a great source of vitamins and minerals. The flank steak is lean and flavorful, making it a perfect protein choice. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own, this meal is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

What We’re Using

• 16 ounces flank steak – A lean cut that cooks quickly and stays tender.
• 6 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth of flavor and umami.
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps to tenderize the meat and create a lovely glaze.
• 2 tablespoons water – Used to mix with cornstarch for a smooth marinade.
• 1 teaspoon granulated white sugar – Balances the salty soy sauce.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided – Essential for frying and keeping the ingredients from sticking.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and aroma.
• 2 medium bell peppers, thinly sliced – Provides color and crunch.
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms – Adds earthiness to the dish.
• 1 cup sliced zucchini – Contributes a fresh, light flavor.
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger – Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of spice.
• Cooked rice, for serving (optional) – A great base for the stir fry.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Wok or large frying pan – Ideal for stir frying as it allows for high heat and quick cooking.
• Sharp knife – For slicing the beef and vegetables easily.
• Cutting board – A stable surface for chopping.
• Measuring spoons – To accurately measure ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients.

Mastering Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps to ensure that the meat stays tender. Once sliced, place the beef in a bowl and add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, and 4 teaspoons of cornstarch. Stir well to coat the beef evenly and set aside to marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the beef is marinating, thinly slice the onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and carrot. Grate the fresh ginger. Having everything prepped beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large wok or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers, which will help give the beef that beautiful sear.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for about 2 minutes to develop a nice color. Then, stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 5: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, bell peppers, and carrot first, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the mushrooms, zucchini, and grated ginger. Continue to stir fry for another 3-4 minutes until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine and Season

Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Toss everything together to combine and heat through for another minute.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables over a bed of cooked rice if desired, or enjoy it as is for a lighter option. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if you like!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

• Flank steak – Can be substituted with sirloin or chicken breast for a different protein.
• Vegetable oil – Can be replaced with olive oil or sesame oil for added flavor.
• Bell peppers – You can use snap peas or broccoli for a different texture.
• Mushrooms – If you’re not a fan, you can replace them with bok choy or baby corn.

Author’s Commentary

This Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables recipe is one of those dishes that I return to again and again. It’s endlessly customizable, which means you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. I love that it can be made in a flash, and there’s something so satisfying about the sizzling sound of the stir fry cooking in the pan. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meal without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor!

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re looking to meal prep, this stir fry is perfect for that! You can marinate the beef and chop all the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cooked stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or a hot skillet until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my beef is tough?

If your beef turns out tough, it might be due to slicing it against the grain. Always slice flank steak against the grain for tenderness. Additionally, marinating the beef in soy sauce and cornstarch helps tenderize it, so make sure to follow that step closely.

Why are my vegetables soggy?

Soggy vegetables can result from overcooking. Stir frying should be done quickly at high heat to retain crunch. Make sure to keep the cooking time short and opt for fresh, crispy vegetables.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha when you add the soy sauce. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

While stir fry can be frozen, the texture of the vegetables may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider freezing the beef separately from the vegetables. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir fry in a hot pan until heated through.

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Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered this Easy Stir Fried Beef with Vegetables recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, fire up that wok, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to make it your own. Happy cooking!