Easy Classic Chinese Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Classic Chinese Beef Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender beef and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce, it’s a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the vegetable 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.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and soy sauce to the beef, stirring to coat. Then add the mixed vegetables and continue stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and everything is heated through.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand for a customized stir-fry.
• Add a splash of sesame oil or sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving for a nutty finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the vegetables.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, chicken, pork, or shrimp can be substituted for beef using the same cooking method and timing adjustments as needed.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking it. Cooking quickly on high heat helps keep it tender.

Easy Classic Chinese Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 126 reviews

A quick and easy classic Chinese beef stir fry recipe featuring tender beef strips cooked with fresh garlic, soy sauce, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner packed with savory, umami-rich taste and vibrant textures.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sugar

Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup snap peas

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Thinly slice the sirloin beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Mince garlic finely and set aside.
2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, water, and sugar until smooth. This will create a flavorful stir-fry sauce.
3. Stir-fry the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown but is not fully cooked through.
4. Add vegetables: Toss in broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Continue stir-frying everything together for another 3-4 minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Finish with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables using a spatula to toss everything well. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens and coats all ingredients nicely.
6. Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

• For best results, slice the beef very thinly and against the grain to keep it tender.
• Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy.
• Adjust soy sauce amount to taste, especially if using low-sodium soy sauce.
• This dish cooks quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready before starting to stir-fry.
• Oyster sauce is optional but adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.

Keywords: Chinese beef stir fry, easy stir fry recipe, quick beef dinner, classic Chinese food, simple stir fry