Classic Chinese Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Introduction
This Classic Chinese Beef Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender slices of beef are cooked with fresh vegetables and a savory soy-garlic sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry the mixed vegetables until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the soy sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Swap beef for chicken or tofu to suit your preference.
- Add a splash of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a different taste.
- Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand to keep the dish fresh and colorful.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the beef tender.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir fry?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and can save prep time. Just stir-fry them a bit longer to ensure they are cooked through and to reduce excess moisture.
How do I make the beef more tender?
Thinly slicing the beef against the grain and marinating it briefly in soy sauce, a little cornstarch, and a splash of oil can help keep it tender during cooking.
PrintClassic Chinese Beef Stir Fry Recipe
A classic Chinese beef stir fry combining tender slices of beef with fresh vegetables, garlic, and a savory soy sauce-based sauce, cooked quickly over high heat for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
Beef
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup snap peas
Others
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness during cooking. Set aside.
- Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering.
- Stir-fry the beef: Add the sliced beef to the hot oil and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it begins to brown but is not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic followed by the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Combine and sauce: Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a classic Chinese beef stir fry experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for 20 minutes before cooking.
- Use high heat to ensure quick cooking and to retain vegetable crispness.
- Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity according to your salt preference.
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly for best texture.
Keywords: Chinese beef stir fry, quick beef stir fry, easy Chinese recipe, beef and vegetables stir fry, soy sauce beef

