Delicious Cumin Beef: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection

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Cumin Beef is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with the warm, aromatic flavors of cumin. This recipe uses a dry-stir-frying method to create extra crispy beef without the need for deep frying. Coated with bold seasonings, it delivers that true restaurant taste right in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a flavorful meal, this cumin beef recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Cumin Beef

There are so many reasons to adore this cumin-infused beef. First and foremost, it’s quick and easy, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish. The dry-stir-frying technique ensures that the beef is incredibly crispy while retaining its juiciness. The use of cumin-seasoned beef brings a unique flavor that elevates any dinner table. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides. Serve it with steamed rice, in cumin beef tacos, or as part of a hearty cumin beef stew recipe.

Ingredients for Cumin Beef

Gather these items:

1 lb beef flank steak
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons Sichuan chili flakes (or Korean chili flakes)
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground Sichuan peppercorns (or black pepper)
1/4 cup cornstarch
3 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
8 dried Chinese chili peppers, halved crosswise and seeds removed
1 small red onion, sliced into 1/2” (1 cm) thick pieces
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
5 cloves garlic, sliced
1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Cumin Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cut the flank steak along the grain into two even pieces, then slice it against the grain into pieces that are around 1/4” (5 mm) thick.
Step 2: Combine beef, salt, baking soda, and vegetable oil in a big bowl. Mix well. Let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 3: Combine the ingredients for the spice mix in a small bowl.
Step 4: When you’re ready to cook, drain the extra liquid from the bowl of beef. Add the cornstarch, a few tablespoons at a time, and mix until all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Cook in batches, spreading the beef slices without overlapping. Cook until the bottom turns golden and crispy, 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the slices to fry the other side until golden brown and crispy, another 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the beef to a large plate. Cook the rest of the batches, adding more oil if the pan gets dry, and turn to medium heat if the pan starts to smoke too much.
Step 6: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the dried Chinese chili peppers, ginger, and garlic. Stir a few times to release the fragrance. Add the onion and cook for about 1 minute until it starts to turn tender. Add back the beef and sprinkle the spice mix all over. Stir immediately to coat the meat with spice. Remove the pan from the stove and carefully taste a piece of beef. Sprinkle a bit more salt if needed. Turn off the heat, add the sesame seeds, and stir again. Transfer everything to a big plate immediately. Serve hot as a main dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Cumin Beef

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the beef is sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Letting the beef marinate helps tenderize it and enhances the flavor.
For extra crunch, you can double fry the beef slices.
Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Adjust the heat level according to your preference by modifying the amount of Sichuan chili flakes.

Best Ways to Serve Cumin Beef

There are several amazing ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a comforting meal.
Use it as a filling for cumin beef tacos, topped with fresh cilantro and lime.
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spices.

How to Store and Reheat Cumin Beef

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals all week long!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cumin Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Cumin Beef?

The secret lies in slicing the beef correctly and ensuring it’s well-marinated. A dry-stir-frying method keeps the beef crispy without overpowering it with oil.

Can I make Cumin Beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and marinade ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. Just cook it fresh right before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cumin Beef?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the beef slices are thin and uniform. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking, as this will cause steaming instead of frying.

Variations of Cumin Beef You Can Try

There are many exciting variations you can explore:

Try cumin beef kabobs by skewering marinated pieces of beef with vegetables.
Make a cumin beef curry dish by adding coconut milk and simmering the beef until tender.
For a lighter option, consider using ground beef with cumin seasoning and making lettuce wraps.
Experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying spice levels.