Craving a quick and tasty meal that beats takeout? You’re in the right place! My Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry is simple, flavorful, and way better than any delivery. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry
To make Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry, you need:
– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Essential pantry items
You will also need some key items from your pantry:
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soy sauce for flavor
– Cornstarch for thickening
– Honey or maple syrup for sweetness
– Rice vinegar for a tangy kick
Recommended garnishes
To make your dish pop, add these garnishes:
– Sesame seeds for crunch
– Chopped green onions for freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the beef
First, gather your flank steak. You want it thinly sliced against the grain. In a bowl, add the beef, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix this well to coat the meat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step makes the beef tender and full of flavor.
Preparing the stir-fry
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef. Spread it out in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until it’s browned. Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onion, bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp.
Making the teriyaki sauce
Now, let’s make the teriyaki sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring it to a simmer. In another bowl, stir cornstarch with water until smooth. Add this to the skillet. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combining and serving
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Toss everything together until the beef is heated through and coated in sauce. Serve your teriyaki beef stir-fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to achieve tender beef
To get tender beef, choose flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the meat fibers. Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes. Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch in the marinade. The cornstarch helps to keep the beef juicy. When cooking, stir-fry quickly over high heat. This locks in moisture and keeps it tender.
Best vegetables for stir-fry
For a great stir-fry, use fresh vegetables. Broccoli florets add crunch and color. Bell peppers give a sweet flavor. Slice red or yellow peppers for a vibrant look. Onions add sweetness when cooked. You can also use snap peas, carrots, or bok choy. Choose vegetables that cook quickly. This keeps them crisp and bright.
Adjusting sweetness and flavor
You can adjust the sweetness to your taste. Honey works well, but maple syrup is a good choice too. Start with 1/4 cup and taste as you go. If you like it sweeter, add more. For a savory kick, add rice vinegar. This balances the sweetness. Feel free to experiment with flavors. A splash of chili sauce can add heat if you want.
Variations
Dietary modifications (e.g., gluten-free)
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce. Look for brands that use rice or tamari. The honey or maple syrup is safe for gluten-free diets.
Ingredient substitutions (e.g., different proteins)
Feel free to change the meat! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work great. If using chicken, choose thin strips of breast or thigh. For shrimp, use large, peeled ones. Tofu should be firm and pressed for best results.
Serving suggestions (rice vs. noodles)
You can serve Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry over rice or noodles. Steamed white or brown rice is a classic choice. If you want something different, try egg noodles or rice noodles. Both options soak up the sauce well and taste amazing!
Storage Info
Refrigeration tips
To keep your Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It stays good for about three to four days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing. This helps avoid condensation inside the container.
Freezing instructions
You can freeze Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. It will last for about two to three months in the freezer. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating methods
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them carefully. If you use a microwave, place the stir-fry in a bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. If you prefer the stovetop, warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help it heat evenly. Stir until it’s hot throughout. Enjoy your meal as if it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can! Other cuts of beef work well. Try sirloin or ribeye for a tasty change. Both are tender and add great flavor. Just slice them thinly like flank steak.
How do I make it less salty?
To reduce the salt, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also cut back on the soy sauce by half. Adding more honey or maple syrup can help balance the flavor too.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can! Marinate the beef the night before for more flavor. You can also prep the veggies ahead. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with teriyaki beef stir-fry?
Serve it over rice or noodles for a hearty meal. Steamed rice or fried rice works well. You can also add a side of pickled veggies for extra crunch and flavor.
You learned the key ingredients, steps, and tips for making teriyaki beef stir-fry. The right marinating and sauce can make a big difference. Remember to try different vegetables and proteins, too. This dish is easy to customize for your taste. Store leftovers correctly to enjoy later. With these tips, you can create a delicious meal that suits everyone. Enjoy cooking your own teriyaki beef stir-fry!
