Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Spicy beef stir fry with rice is a fast, flavor-packed dinner that delivers tender strips of beef, crisp green peppers, and a bold, savory sauce in every bite. This recipe combines high-heat cooking with a balanced blend of soy sauce, garlic, and chili for a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying. The beef sears quickly to develop a rich crust while staying juicy inside, and the peppers remain slightly crisp for texture contrast. Served over fluffy white rice, it becomes a complete meal. For best results, prep all ingredients before cooking since stir fry moves quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced (450 g)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 g)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30 ml)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (5 g)
- 1–2 green bell peppers, sliced (300 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (1 g)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (5 ml)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (4 g)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (185 g)
- 2 cups water (480 ml)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the rice: Rinse rice under cold water until clear. Bring water to a boil, add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until tender and fluffy. Keep warm.
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let sit for 10 minutes to tenderize and create a silky texture.
- Heat the wok or skillet: Place a large wok or skillet over high heat until very hot. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
- Sear the beef: Add beef in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes without stirring too much. A browned crust should form quickly. Remove and set aside.
- Stir fry vegetables: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and sliced green peppers. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Build the sauce: Stir in chili flakes, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Return the beef to the pan and toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until coated and heated through.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy beef and green pepper stir fry over warm rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
FAQs
Q1: What cut of beef is best for stir fry?
Flank steak or sirloin works best because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thinly against the grain.
Q2: How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili flakes. You can also add a splash of broth to mellow the heat.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or onions are excellent additions and cook quickly in a stir fry.
