Delicious Beijing Beef: 7 Steps to Perfection

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Beijing Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen. This dish features tender beef strips paired with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all tossed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy homemade stir-fry sauce that tastes just like something you would find at your favorite takeout spot. The first bite is an explosion of flavor that makes it clear why this dish is a fan favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Beijing Beef

This Chinese Beijing beef recipe offers numerous advantages: it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and the dish is packed with protein, making it satisfying and filling. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. With the use of fresh vegetables, it’s also a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your meals. For those wondering, what is Beijing beef? It’s a delicious fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that will become a staple in your household.

Ingredients for Beijing Beef

Gather these items:

1 pound flank steak (cut into ¼-inch thick strips)
salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 egg whites (lightly beaten)
¼ cup cornstarch (+ 1 tablespoon)
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
½ cup low sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons ketchup
¼ cup hoisin sauce
3 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce
2 teaspoons oyster sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 red bell peppers (seeded and chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
sesame seeds (for garnish)
spring onions (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Beijing Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the beef. Using a whisk, beat the soy sauce, egg whites, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the sliced steak, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.
Step 2: Make the sauce. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.
Step 3: Velvet the beef. Remove the beef from the marinade. Discard the marinade. Coat the beef slices with the ¼ cup of cornstarch. You can do this in two batches.
Step 4: Cook the beef. Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or wok to 350˚F. Once heated, add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes or until done. Remove the beef slices with a slotted spoon and move them to a paper-lined plate to drain. Try not to crowd the pan and cook the beef in two batches.
Step 5: Cook the veggies. Remove most of the oil from your skillet or wok, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add the bell pepper and cook, stirring until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 15 seconds, or until fragrant. Remove the veggies from the skillet and transfer them to the plate with the beef.
Step 6: Thicken the sauce. Add the sauce to the same skillet or wok. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until it thickens.
Step 7: Put it all together. Stir the beef and veggies back into the pan with the sauce and toss to combine.
Step 8: Serve. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and spring onions.

Pro Tips for the Best Beijing Beef

Keep these in mind:

Use flank steak for optimal tenderness.
Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Beijing Beef

This dish works wonderfully over a bed of steamed rice or with stir-fried noodles. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Pairing it with beef stir fry with Beijing sauce is another excellent way to enjoy this dish!

How to Store and Reheat Beijing Beef

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring the beef retains its tenderness. For meal prep, consider portioning it into containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Beijing Beef?

The secret lies in marinating the beef properly and using high-quality ingredients for the sauce. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making it the best Beijing-style beef dish you can make at home.

Can I make Beijing Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine and heat before serving for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Beijing Beef?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your oil is hot enough for frying, do not overcrowd the pan, and always taste the sauce before serving to adjust flavors to your liking.

Variations of Beijing Beef You Can Try

There are plenty of variations to explore! You can make a Beijing beef with vegetables by adding broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. For those who enjoy a sweeter flavor, try adding pineapple for a beef in sweet and sour sauce twist. Alternatively, experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet soy to create your own unique dish.