Craving a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Easy Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry is your answer for those hectic weeknights. With tender beef slices, vibrant veggies, and a savory teriyaki sauce, it’s a dish that packs a punch in every bite. Perfect for when you need a satisfying dinner on the table fast, this recipe will become a staple in your weeknight rotation.
Steps
- In a small pot, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water, and add it to the boiling sauce. Boil for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens, then set aside.
- Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan on medium-high heat. Add the vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to brown and soften. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cook until it evaporates, then remove vegetables from the pan.
- Wipe out the pan and heat the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil over high heat. Place half of the sliced steak in the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Set aside and repeat with the remaining beef.
- Return all the cooked beef and vegetables to the pan, pour the prepared sauce over the top, and cook for 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat until everything is heated through. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs thinly sliced steak (such as flank steak or sirloin)
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1384kcal | Carbohydrates: 100g | Protein: 136g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 340mg | Sodium: 3656mg | Potassium: 3032mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 76g | Vitamin A: 1700IU | Vitamin C: 246.4mg | Calcium: 324mg | Iron: 12.4mg
FAQ
- What type of beef is best for teriyaki beef stir fry?
- Thinly sliced flank steak is recommended, but sirloin or any other tender cut can also work well for this dish.
- Can I use different proteins in this stir fry?
- Yes, you can substitute the beef with ground beef, chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to suit your preference.
- What vegetables can be used in teriyaki beef stir fry?
- While broccoli and bell peppers are used in this recipe, you can also try snow peas, mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, or asparagus.
- How do you make homemade teriyaki sauce?
- The sauce is made by simmering together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil. Cornstarch is then added to thicken it. This sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.
- Can I add fruit to the stir fry?
- Yes, for a tropical twist, you can add cubed pineapple to the stir fry for additional flavor.
- How long does it take to make teriyaki beef stir fry?
- With preparation and cooking, you can have this dish ready in about 20-30 minutes.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin to ensure your beef is tender. These cuts are ideal for achieving a perfect sear while maintaining tenderness.
- Prep Vegetables in Advance: Before you start cooking, have all your vegetables cleaned, cut, and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and help maintain the crunch and color of the veggies.
- Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: Prepare the homemade teriyaki sauce up to three days in advance. This will save time on the day you cook and allow the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Cook Rice Simultaneously: Start cooking your rice just as you begin with the vegetables. This way, your rice and stir fry will be ready at the same time, ensuring a quick and seamless dinner preparation.
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet: A high-quality wok or large skillet is essential for stir-frying and ensuring even cooking.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing the beef and vegetables thinly and evenly.
- Garlic Press or Grater: Useful for mincing garlic and ginger more efficiently.
- Small Saucepan: Needed for making the teriyaki sauce.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing and mixing ingredients like cornstarch with water.
- Cooking Utensils: Such as a spatula or wooden spoon suitable for stir-frying.
