This tasty dish features tender beef cooked in a rich oyster sauce that adds a wonderful umami flavor. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how the beef becomes so juicy and full of flavor. Serve it with rice and watch it disappear—everyone will be asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best as they are tender and full of flavor. If you need a lighter option, try chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and color. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli make great substitutes!
Oyster Sauce: This is key for its unique taste. If you’re vegetarian, opt for mushroom oyster sauce or soy sauce combined with a little sugar for sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness. If you’re reducing sodium, choose low-sodium soy sauce, or tamari for a gluten-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Beef for Stir-Frying?
Marinating is crucial for boosting flavor and tenderness. By adding soy sauce and cornstarch to beef, you not only infuse more taste but also help it stay juicy during cooking.
- Mix the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl, making sure all pieces are coated.
- Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate and tenderizes the meat.
How to Achieve the Perfect Stir-Fry Texture?
Stir-frying cooks quickly, so watch the timing to keep your beef tender. Here’s how:
- Use a hot pan or wok and avoid crowding it. Cook in batches if needed.
- Brown the beef for just 2-3 minutes, so it’s still slightly undercooked when you remove it.
- Don’t forget to toss in the garlic and onions right after the beef—this keeps them fragrant without burning.
Following these tips prepares your dish for the best results—leaving you with a delicious meal ready in no time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Savory Beef with Oyster Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 cup asparagus spears, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, sliced into wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional, for deeper color)
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced diagonally for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dish will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes marinating the beef, and the cooking process will only take about 15 minutes. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine the beef slices with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Toss everything gently so the beef is well-coated and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but still slightly undercooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the minced garlic and onion wedges for about 2 minutes, until they become fragrant and the onions start to soften. This is where all the flavors begin to build!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Add the asparagus pieces to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they are tender yet still bright green and crisp.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Stir in the oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), Shaoxing wine, sugar, and beef broth. Mix everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables nicely. You want it to be glossy and flavorful!
7. Final Touches:
Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
8. Serve:
Turn off the heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve your savory beef hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful savory beef infused with the rich umami of oyster sauce and fresh crisp asparagus!
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Can I Substitute the Beef?
Yes! While sirloin or flank steak is recommended for tenderness, you can use chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for chicken and tofu, to ensure they’re cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans, broccoli, or even bell peppers make great substitutes. They all add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, sliced fresh chili peppers, or a dash of Sriracha when you add the sauces. Adjust according to your heat preference!
