30-Minute Ginger Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 30-Minute Ginger Beef is an easy-to-make stir-fry that’s bursting with bold, zesty flavors. The quick cooking method keeps the beef tender, and the combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats every bite. You can make this dish in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for a busy evening when you want a homemade, restaurant-quality meal in no time. It’s also highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup water or beef broth
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures that the beef will be tender and easy to eat once cooked. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned, but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the onion and bell pepper and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until softened but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Add the water or beef broth, bring to a simmer, and let the sauce cook for 1-2 minutes.

5. Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the beef to the skillet, tossing it with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked through and coated in the sauce.

6. Serve: Serve the ginger beef over cooked rice or noodles, and garnish with sliced green onions.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add additional vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy Ginger Beef: If you like your dish spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a sliced fresh chili pepper for an extra kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like flank steak or ribeye. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables will work fine in this stir-fry, though fresh vegetables tend to have a better texture.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers to the dish to adjust the spice level.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and slice the beef and vegetables ahead of time. Just cook everything together when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs well with cooked rice, noodles, or even a side of steamed vegetables.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and checking the labels on your oyster sauce for gluten.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

This recipe is designed for quick stir-frying, but if you prefer to use a slow cooker, you can cook the beef and vegetables in the sauce on low for 4-6 hours. The texture and cooking method will change, though.

Can I substitute the soy sauce?

You can use coconut aminos or liquid aminos as a soy sauce alternative if you’re avoiding soy or looking for a lower-sodium option.

Can I add nuts to this dish?

Yes! Toasted cashews or peanuts would be a delicious addition, adding both crunch and flavor.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water (a slurry) during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

30-Minute Ginger Beef is a quick, flavorful stir-fry that brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes to your dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal in no time. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy the bold flavors and tender beef in this deliciously simple recipe!

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