Now, let’s dive into a dish that’s as exciting to make as it is to eat. This beef flank steak stir fry is your ticket to a delicious, hassle-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor and comes together in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something gourmet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- The marinade infuses the beef with deep, savory flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
- High heat cooking locks in the juices, making the flank steak incredibly tender.
- Vibrant vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients, making this a balanced meal.
- It’s versatile; easily adapt the veggies or sauce to what you have on hand.
- Quick cooking time means dinner is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to an hour in the fridge for deeper flavor. Tip: Slicing the beef against the grain ensures it stays tender after cooking.
Prep the Vegetables
While the beef marinates, slice the red bell pepper and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the stir-fry process smooth and quick. Tip: Uniformly sized vegetables cook evenly, so take your time with this step.
Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Stir Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tbsp of oil and toss in the bell pepper and broccoli. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender. The high heat will give them a slight char, adding to the dish’s flavor.
Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables, tossing everything together to combine and heat through for about a minute. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles. Tip: Letting the beef rest before slicing and then briefly at the end ensures it stays juicy.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful dish, consider doubling the marinade ingredients and using half to marinate the beef and the other half as a sauce to drizzle over the finished dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but the flavor won’t be as deep. Always use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut oil for stir-frying to prevent burning. To make this dish spicier, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the marinade. For a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with the marinade before adding it to the beef.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the beef for chicken, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use different vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms based on what’s in season or your preferences.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate nuts like cashews or peanuts for added crunch and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and tenderness when sliced correctly, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just remember to slice against the grain for the most tender results.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef should be browned on the outside but still slightly pink inside for the best texture. It will continue to cook a bit when you return it to the skillet with the vegetables, so erring on the side of underdone is better.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but for the best texture and flavor, cook the stir fry just before serving. The vegetables can lose their crispness, and the beef can become tough if reheated.
Summary
This beef flank steak stir fry is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any night of the week. With a few simple ingredients and some high heat, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time.