Name: Savory Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (or beef chuck (tenderize), or sirloin); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (for marinating); 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda (to enhance tenderness); 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (such as vegetable or canola oil); 2 cups Bok Choy (chopped; or substitute with spinach or kale); 1 cup Bunashimeji Mushrooms (or shiitake mushrooms); 1 cup Snap Peas (or snow peas); 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Light) (use gluten-free tamari if needed); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Dark); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (or mushroom oyster sauce for vegan); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (remember, a little goes a long way); 1 teaspoon Sugar (to balance sauce); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 inch Ginger (fresh, peeled and minced)

As the sizzling sound of meat hitting a hot wok fills the kitchen, I’m reminded of cozy weeknight dinners spent with family. This Quick and Easy Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables is my go-to dish when time is short but comfort food cravings strike. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant meal that’s not only customizable to include your favorite vegetables but also packed with nutrition. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to steer clear of fast food while enjoying the bold flavors of homemade Chinese cuisine. Your tastebuds will thank you, and your busy schedule will too! Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious stir-fry?

Why is this Beef Stir-fry special?

Speedy Cooking: This dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving homemade food without the hassle.
Customizable Goodness: You can easily switch out vegetables or proteins, so it adapts effortlessly to your tastes. Think vibrant bell peppers, hearty broccoli, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Bold Flavors: A harmonious blend of soy sauces, garlic, and ginger creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, this stir-fry is a guilt-free way to enjoy takeout flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining friends, this Beef Stir-fry will impress everyone at the table, just like my Ground Beef Enchiladas.
Comfort Food Reinvented: Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a fresher, healthier alternative that’s ready in no time! Dive into this succulent dish today!

Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for a delicious Beef Stir-fry!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – Use flank, beef chuck (tenderize), or sirloin for the best texture.
Cornstarch – Essential for tenderizing the beef during marination.
Baking Soda – A little goes a long way; ¼ teaspoon enhances tenderness.
Neutral Oil – Opt for vegetable, canola, or avocado oil for high-heat frying.

For the Vegetables

Bok Choy – A crunchy, nutritious choice; substitute with spinach or kale if desired.
Bunashimeji Mushrooms – Adds umami flavor; feel free to swap with shiitake or your favorite mushrooms.
Snap Peas – Sweet and crisp; snow peas are a great alternative.

For the Sauce

Shaoxing Wine – Enhances the dish’s flavor; dry sherry can be used if you’re out.
Soy Sauces (Light & Dark) – Provide depth and color; use gluten-free tamari for a gluten-free option.
Oyster Sauce – Rich flavor that balances the dish well; for vegan, try mushroom oyster sauce.
Sesame Oil – Adds aromatic flavor; remember, a little goes a long way.

For the Aromatics

Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s complexity for a burst of flavor.
Ginger – Fresh is preferred, adding warmth and spice to the stir-fry.

Now you’re all set to create a satisfying and flavorful Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables that will impress your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables

Step 1: Marinate Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine sliced flank steak, cornstarch, baking soda, a drizzle of neutral oil, and a splash of water. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef evenly, then cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or store it in the refrigerator overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.

Step 2: Prep Vegetables
While the beef marinates, wash and chop the bok choy into bite-sized pieces, slice the bunashimeji mushrooms, and trim the snap peas. Arrange all the vegetables on a plate, keeping them separate for easy access during cooking. This prep step is crucial for a smooth and efficient stir-fry process.

Step 3: Make Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together warm water, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar. Stir until well combined, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely. This savory sauce will bring the Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables to life, so have it ready to go!

Step 4: Heat Wok
Place your carbon steel wok over high heat and allow it to preheat until it’s lightly smoking, which should take about 3–5 minutes. A properly heated wok is essential for achieving that signature “wok hei” flavor, so resist the urge to add the ingredients until the wok is hot enough.

Step 5: Sear Beef
Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil to the hot wok, swirling it to coat the surface. Spread the marinated beef in an even layer and let it sear without stirring for about 30 seconds. Flip the beef pieces and sear the other side for another 30 seconds until they develop a nice brown color.

Step 6: Remove Beef
Once the beef is beautifully seared, carefully remove the pieces from the wok and set them aside on a plate to rest. This step prevents overcooking the beef and keeps it tender and juicy for your Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables.

Step 7: Cook Vegetables
In the same hot wok, add a bit more oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the bunashimeji mushrooms and continue stirring for another 15 seconds to lightly cook them, allowing their flavors to bloom.

Step 8: Add Vegetables
Quickly incorporate the snap peas and bok choy into the wok, tossing everything together. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds, just until the bok choy wilts slightly but still retains its vibrant green color and crunch. This balance is vital for a delicious Beef Stir-fry.

Step 9: Combine
Pour the prepared sauce into the wok with the vegetables. Add the previously set-aside beef back into the wok, and mix everything until well coated. Allow the mixture to cook together for a minute, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully in each bite of your Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables.

Step 10: Thicken Sauce
For a luscious finish, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of water. While stirring the stir-fry, drizzle in this slurry and cook for 20 seconds until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, beautifully clinging to every ingredient. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

Expert Tips for Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables

Choose Quality Beef: Use fresh flank steak or sirloin for tenderness. Avoid pre-sliced beef, which can be tough and uneven.
Prep Ahead: Cut and marinate the beef in advance. This not only saves time but enhances the flavors of your Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables.
Get the Wok Hot: Preheat your wok thoroughly before cooking to achieve that prized “wok hei” flavor. A properly heated wok is essential!
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook ingredients in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the wok will steam your vegetables instead of stir-frying them.
Quick Cooking: Be ready to stir-fry! Keep your cooking times short to retain the vegetables’ crunch and nutrition while ensuring the beef stays tender.
Sauce Balance: Adjust the sauce according to your taste—feel free to modify the soy sauce or oyster sauce for your preference.

Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this Beef Stir-fry your own!

Vegetable Swap: Replace bok choy with broccoli, cabbage, or bell peppers for a different crunch and flavor profile.
Protein Variety: Switch out beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu to cater to your dietary preferences and make it your own!
Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chili or a dash of chili oil to amp up the heat and add an exciting layer of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving for a fresh and fragrant finish.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some cashews or peanuts during the last minute of cooking for added texture and richness.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for those avoiding gluten while keeping the same amazing taste.
Umami Boost: Enhance the dish with a splash of mushroom oyster sauce instead of regular oyster sauce for a deeper flavor.

These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to adapt to what you have on hand. Try adding in ingredients like the ones in my delicious Mexican Beef Soup or serve alongside a comforting Beef Pepper Rice for a complete meal your family will adore. Enjoy your flavorful culinary journey!

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it soaks up all the savory flavors while remaining tender. Additionally, wash and chop the vegetables, placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to prepare the dish, simply heat your wok and cook the marinated beef and prepped vegetables together, following the instructions for finishing. You’ll have a quick, delicious meal ready in no time, just as satisfying as if you made everything from scratch!

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this wholesome dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that soaks up the savory sauce perfectly, creating a comforting and filling meal.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp and refreshing, these rolls bring an extra crunch that balances the tenderness of the stir-fry beautifully.
Garlic Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in a garlic-infused sauce offer a satisfying texture that pairs well with the beef and veggies.
Crispy Wontons: These golden, flaky bites add a playful crunch to your meal and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
Miso Soup: Warm and umami-rich, this soup acts as a gentle palate cleanser, preparing your taste buds for the deep flavors of the stir-fry.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A vibrant and zesty side, the cool cucumbers slice through the richness of the beef with a refreshing bite.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: This light and fizzy drink enhances the meal without overpowering the flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat rounds off the meal beautifully, contrasting savory and sweetness in the best way.

How to Store and Freeze Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the Beef Stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate the beef and vegetables before freezing to preserve texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help it steam back to life. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring gently until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can prep and marinate the beef ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator and cook it fresh for a quick Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables on a busy weeknight.

Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beef for my stir-fry?
Absolutely! For the best texture, look for flank steak or sirloin. These cuts are tender and perfect for stir-frying. Avoid pre-sliced beef, as it can be tough and uneven. Slice the beef against the grain for added tenderness, and aim for pieces about 1/4 inch thick for quick and even cooking.

How should I store leftovers from my Beef Stir-fry?
Very simple! Store your leftover Beef Stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before enjoying again. Adding a splash of water when reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze Beef Stir-fry with Vegetables?
Yes! You can freeze your Beef Stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For the best results, I recommend separating the beef and vegetables before freezing to preserve their textures. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

What if I don’t have any of the vegetables listed?
No worries at all! This beef stir-fry is incredibly customizable. You can substitute bok choy with broccoli or bell peppers, and instead of bunashimeji mushrooms, try shiitake or even button mushrooms. Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand for a delicious twist!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have specific dietary needs, there are a few adjustments you can make. For a gluten-free option, swap regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. To make it vegan, replace the beef with tofu or tempeh, and use mushroom oyster sauce in place of traditional oyster sauce.

How can I prevent my vegetables from getting soggy?
Great question! To retain that delightful crunch, make sure your wok is very hot before adding the vegetables. Cook them quickly, just until they are bright and slightly wilted, which usually takes no more than 20-30 seconds. Stir-frying in batches can also prevent overcrowding, which leads to steaming instead of stir-frying.