If you’re craving a dinner that’s not only fast and healthy but also bursting with vibrant flavors and textures, this Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender beef strips and a colorful mix of crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory soy-garlic sauce that makes every bite crave-worthy. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just want a satisfying meal packed with nutrition and bold taste, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe is simple yet essential – they come together to create a harmony of flavors, colors, and textures that make this dish truly special.
- Beef strips: Choose flank or sirloin for tenderness and quick cooking.
- Bell peppers: Use a mix of colors for sweetness and a crunchy bite.
- Broccoli: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast and a satisfying crunch.
- Soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone that ties the dish together.
- Garlic: Infuses aromatic depth and a hint of spice to brighten the stir fry.
How to Make Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Searing the Beef
Start by heating a splash of oil in a hot pan until shimmering. Add your beef strips and sear them quickly until they develop a rich brown crust—this locks in juices and builds layers of flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside to rest so it remains tender.
Step 2: Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Next, toss your vibrant bell peppers and broccoli into the same pan. Stir-fry them just until they become crisp-tender, preserving their natural sweetness and crunch. This step ensures your vegetables stay fresh and vibrant rather than soggy or overcooked.
Step 3: Adding Garlic
Now introduce the minced garlic, stirring it around the hot pan to release its fragrant oils. This brief cooking step adds a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients and Seasoning
Return the seared beef to the pan, drizzle soy sauce over everything, and toss it all together so each strip and vegetable is evenly coated. The soy sauce brings a savory depth and just the right balance of saltiness to meld all the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your stir fry with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and a subtle nutty or fresh onion flavor that complements the main dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or even simple noodles. These sides soak up the sauce and make the meal more filling without overshadowing the vibrant flavors of the beef and vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your stir fry wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves or piled high in warm, soft tortillas for an Asian-inspired taco night that’s both casual and impressive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover beef and vegetable stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Portion the stir fry into freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture of both beef and vegetables.
Reheating
Reheat the stir fry gently in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry, then toss until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that fresh stir-fried texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or green beans. The beauty of a stir fry lies in its flexibility, so use whatever fresh veggies you love or have on hand.
What cut of beef works best for stir frying?
Thinly sliced flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are great choices because they cook quickly and remain tender. Avoid thicker cuts that need long cooking times to become tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce with added salt, to make a delicious vegetarian or vegan version while keeping all the great flavors intact.
How can I make the sauce more flavorful?
Try adding a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, a splash of rice vinegar, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soy sauce. These extras add depth and a bit of zing without overwhelming the dish.
What’s the best cooking oil to use?
Use oils with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. These oils allow for the high heat needed to quickly sear beef and crisp vegetables without burning.
Final Thoughts
This Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe truly showcases how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can come together to create a meal that feels both nourishing and exciting. Give it a try the next time you want a fast, healthy dinner loaded with bold flavors—you might just find a new favorite to repeat again and again.
Print
Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and healthy beef and vegetable stir fry featuring tender beef strips, crisp bell peppers, and broccoli tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef
- 300g beef strips
Vegetables
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Sauce and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions
- Sear Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the beef strips and sear until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add the bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry the vegetables over medium-high heat until they are crisp-tender, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Combine and Season: Return the seared beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and toss everything together well to evenly coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to blend.
Notes
- Use flank or sirloin steak for tender beef strips.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity for salt preference.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- For added heat, include a pinch of red chili flakes.
- Ensure the pan is hot to achieve proper searing and crisp vegetables.
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