This Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers in Soy-Oyster Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish inspired by Asian cuisine. Combining tender beef strips with green bell peppers, onions, and a delicious sauce made from soy, oyster sauce, and ginger, this dish offers a rich balance of savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this stir-fry comes together in minutes, making it ideal for those craving a satisfying and wholesome meal. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles, and you have a complete dinner that will be loved by all.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- Beef (any tender cut): 500g, sliced into thin strips
- Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
- Cornstarch: 1/2 tbsp
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp (for marinating)
For the Stir-Fry:
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp (for stir-frying)
- Green bell peppers: 2, sliced
- Onion: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger: 10-15g, grated or finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Oyster sauce: 1 tsp
- Cornstarch: 1/2 tbsp (mixed with 2 tbsp water for slurry)
- Water: 100 ml
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Allspice: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef:
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the beef strips with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and infuse the beef with flavor.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Sauce:
- Chop the Vegetables:
Slice the green bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic cloves and grate or finely chop the ginger. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of oyster sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water for a slurry), 100 ml of water, sugar, allspice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef and Vegetables:
- Heat the Oil:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. - Cook the Beef:
Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until it browns and is almost cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables:
In the same wok, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and aromatic.
4. Combine and Finish the Dish:
- Add the Beef Back In:
Return the cooked beef to the wok with the vegetables, stirring to combine. - Pour in the Sauce:
Give the sauce mixture a quick stir and pour it over the beef and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or additional soy sauce as needed.
5. Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy:
Serve the stir-fried beef and vegetables hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.Origins
Stir-frying is a common cooking technique in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese cooking, where ingredients are cooked quickly over high heat to retain their flavors, textures, and nutrients. Soy sauce and oyster sauce are essential seasonings in many East and Southeast Asian dishes. The combination of these sauces is popular in Chinese cuisine, adding saltiness, a hint of sweetness, and savory notes that balance beautifully with beef and vegetables.
Ingredients Overview
- Beef: Lean cuts, like sirloin or flank steak, are ideal for stir-frying as they remain tender when thinly sliced and cooked quickly. Marinating the beef in soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil can help it stay moist and flavorful.
- Bell Peppers: These add a bright, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, providing contrast to the tender beef. You can use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- Sauce: The sauce is made with soy sauce for saltiness, oyster sauce for umami, and often includes a touch of sugar for balance. Some variations may add a hint of sesame oil for a nutty aroma or rice vinegar for acidity.
Cooking Tips
- Preparation: Cut all ingredients before starting to cook. Stir-frying is a fast process, so having everything ready ensures the beef and vegetables cook evenly.
- High Heat: Use high heat to sear the beef quickly, which locks in juices and flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can reduce the heat, causing the beef to steam instead of sear.
- Avoid Overcooking: The bell peppers should remain slightly crisp to complement the tender beef. Add them towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: White jasmine rice or brown rice works well to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles or even lo mein for a different twist.
- Garnishes: Add chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Health and Nutritional Information
This dish is rich in protein and vitamins, particularly from the bell peppers, which are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. It can be adapted to be lower in sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives.
Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers in Soy-Oyster Sauce is a versatile, satisfying dish that combines ease of preparation with robust flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal, it’s sure to please both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers are traditional, but you can add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or broccoli.
Q2: Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
Hoisin sauce or additional soy sauce can work as a substitute for oyster sauce, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Tips for Making the Best Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers
- Use Tender Cuts of Beef:
Cuts like sirloin, flank, or tenderloin are ideal for stir-frying, as they cook quickly and stay tender. - High Heat for Stir-Frying:
A high cooking temperature helps to brown the beef quickly without overcooking, preserving its juicy texture. - Marinate the Beef:
Marinating the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch adds flavor and helps keep it tender. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
When stir-frying, cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the ingredients instead of searing them.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or microwave before serving. - Freezing:
This stir-fry can be frozen, though the texture of the vegetables may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers in Soy-Oyster Sauce is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. The combination of soy and oyster sauces with garlic and ginger infuses the dish with classic Asian flavors that are both comforting and bold. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, this dish makes a fantastic dinner that everyone will enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, home-cooked stir-fry in minutes that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy each bite of this balanced, delicious, and nutritious meal!
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Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers in Soy-Oyster Sauce
- Total Time: 25mins
Description
This Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers in Soy-Oyster Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish inspired by Asian cuisine. Combining tender beef strips with green bell peppers, onions, and a delicious sauce made from soy, oyster sauce, and ginger, this dish offers a rich balance of savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this stir-fry comes together in minutes, making it ideal for those craving a satisfying and wholesome meal. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles, and you have a complete dinner that will be loved by all.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- Beef (any tender cut): 500g, sliced into thin strips
- Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
- Cornstarch: 1/2 tbsp
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp (for marinating)
For the Stir-Fry:
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp (for stir-frying)
- Green bell peppers: 2, sliced
- Onion: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger: 10-15g, grated or finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Oyster sauce: 1 tsp
- Cornstarch: 1/2 tbsp (mixed with 2 tbsp water for slurry)
- Water: 100 ml
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Allspice: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef:
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the beef strips with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and infuse the beef with flavor.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Sauce:
- Chop the Vegetables:
Slice the green bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic cloves and grate or finely chop the ginger. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of oyster sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water for a slurry), 100 ml of water, sugar, allspice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef and Vegetables:
- Heat the Oil:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. - Cook the Beef:
Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until it browns and is almost cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables:
In the same wok, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and aromatic.
4. Combine and Finish the Dish:
- Add the Beef Back In:
Return the cooked beef to the wok with the vegetables, stirring to combine. - Pour in the Sauce:
Give the sauce mixture a quick stir and pour it over the beef and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or additional soy sauce as needed.
5. Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy:
Serve the stir-fried beef and vegetables hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 10mins