Discover a time-tested Chinese method to tenderize even the toughest beef cuts in just five minutes. This recipe combines traditional seasoning techniques with quick and efficient cooking methods to produce incredibly tender and flavorful beef. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 400 grams of beef (any cut of your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 whole egg
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1/2 medium onion, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (additional)
- 1 tablespoon of alcohol vinegar
- Pinch of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch diluted in 2 tablespoons of water
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon of red chili pepper, cut into small cubes
- Parsley to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Cut the Beef:
- Start by cutting 400 grams of your chosen beef cut into thin strips. This will help the meat absorb the marinade and cook evenly.
- Season the Beef:
- Transfer the beef strips to a medium bowl.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Mix well until the beef is evenly coated.
- Add Egg and Cornstarch:
- Add 1 whole egg to the seasoned beef and mix again.
- Finally, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and mix until the cornstarch dissolves completely.
- Set the mixture aside to marinate for a few minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Fry the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium to low heat, add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the marinated beef strips to the skillet and fry until golden brown.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Saute Vegetables
- Saute Bell Pepper:
- In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil.
- Add 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into strips, and saute until slightly wilted.
- Add Onion:
- Add 1/2 medium onion, cut into thin strips, to the skillet.
- Saute until the onion turns golden brown.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Add Beef Back:
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix with the vegetables.
- Season:
- Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of alcohol vinegar to the skillet.
- Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Add a pinch of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch diluted in 2 tablespoons of water.
- Continue to saute for another minute until the sauce thickens.
- Add Garlic and Chili:
- Finally, add 3 crushed garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red chili pepper cut into small cubes.
- Saute for another 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate and Garnish:
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a serving plate.
- Garnish with parsley to taste.
- Enjoy:
- Your tender and flavorful Chinese-style beef stir-fry is ready to serve. Enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success:
- Cutting the Beef: Ensure the beef is cut into thin strips for even cooking and better absorption of the marinade.
- Marinating: Allow the beef to marinate for at least a few minutes to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Cooking Temperature: Keep the skillet on medium to low heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Thickening the Sauce: Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in water before adding it to the skillet to avoid lumps.
- This Chinese method of tenderizing meat is a game-changer for any beef dish. The combination of soy sauce, cornstarch, and egg creates a marinade that breaks down the meat fibers, resulting in incredibly tender beef. Paired with vibrant vegetables and a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Try it at home and see how it transforms your cooking. Enjoy!
I hope this detailed guide helps you create a delicious and tender beef stir-fry that will impress everyone. Happy cooking
