Stir-Fried Beef with Oyster Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender strips of beef and crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet oyster sauce. This popular Chinese-inspired dish is easy to make and packed with umami, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something rich in flavor. The beef is stir-fried with a combination of garlic, ginger, and vegetables like bell peppers and onions, all glazed in a luscious sauce that combines the deep flavors of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. Serve this dish over steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (if using). Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned on all sides, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften but still retain their crispness.
- Add Aromatics and Sauce: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Combine the Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir to coat it evenly in the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pan, cooking for an additional minute until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fried beef over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Stir-Fried Beef with Oyster Sauce is a rich and savory dish that’s full of flavor and textures. The tender beef and crisp vegetables in a silky, umami-packed sauce make it a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please any palate.
