Chinese-style tender beef is a beloved dish that brings together tender slices of beef, a savory sauce, and a touch of sweetness, all combined to create a flavorful, quick meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be paired with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced, hearty meal.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chinese-style beef dishes are a staple in many Chinese households and restaurants. Stir-frying beef with simple yet flavorful sauces has its origins in Cantonese cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and quick cooking methods. Beef dishes in Chinese culture often represent prosperity and strength, making them popular during festivals and celebrations. This recipe showcases the key technique of velveting beef, which helps achieve a soft, tender texture.
INGREDIENTS
Beef (sirloin or flank steak): 1 lb (450g), thinly sliced
Soy sauce (light): 2 tbsp
Oyster sauce: 1 tbsp
Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): 1 tbsp
Cornstarch: 1 tbsp
Sugar: 1 tsp
Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
Ginger (minced): 1 tbsp
Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
Water or beef broth: 1/4 cup
Scallions (optional for garnish): 1/4 cup, chopped
Optional Additions
Bell peppers: Sliced into thin strips for added color and crunch.
Broccoli florets: Add during stir-frying to make it a one-pan dish.
Sesame oil: A few drops for a nutty flavor finish.
Chili flakes or fresh chili: For a spicier version.
Tips for Success
Tenderizing the Beef: For extra tenderness, marinate the beef with a mixture of cornstarch, Shaoxing wine, and soy sauce for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
High Heat Stir-Fry: Stir-frying on high heat ensures the beef cooks quickly and stays tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming the beef.
Cutting the Beef Properly: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Quick Cook Time: This dish comes together quickly, so prepare all ingredients before starting.
INSTRUCTIONS
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to tenderize the meat.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water or beef broth. Set aside.
Heat the Pan: Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot pan in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine the Sauce and Beef: Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer. Add the beef back to the pan and stir to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Description
This Chinese-style tender beef dish offers a balance of umami-rich flavors with a hint of sweetness from the oyster sauce and sugar. The beef is velvety soft thanks to the marination process, and the garlic and ginger add depth to the sauce. It’s a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Chinese stir-fry cuisine.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 27g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 600mg (Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion size.)
Conclusion
Quick and easy Chinese-style tender beef is an ideal recipe for those looking to enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal preparation. Whether you’re familiar with stir-fry cooking or new to it, this dish is straightforward and delivers restaurant-quality results. Serve it alongside rice or noodles for a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.