Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Family Meal

Are you looking for a quick and scrumptious meal that the whole family will enjoy? Look no further than this Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry! This delightful recipe not only promises sensational flavors but also offers great nutritional benefits. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try!

Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Family Meal

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• Author: ranime
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A classic Chinese-style stir-fry featuring tender beef strips and crisp green beans in a savory garlic sauce. This quick-cooking dish delivers bold flavors and perfect texture contrasts in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
  • 12 oz fresh green beans (trimmed)
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 2–3 dried red chilies (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

 

• • For the beef marinade:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda (optional, for extra tenderness)

 

• For the sauce:
• 3 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken stock
• 1 tsp cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Marinate beef: Combine beef with marinade ingredients. Let sit 15-20 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
2. Blanch green beans: Boil beans in salted water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water. Drain and pat dry.
3. Make sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
4. Stir-fry beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in wok over high heat. Add beef in single layer and sear 1-2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove.
5. Cook aromatics: Add remaining oil. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chilies (if using) for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir-fry beans: Add green beans and stir-fry 2-3 minutes until bright green with some charred spots.
7. Combine: Return beef to wok. Add sauce and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats ingredients.
8. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

Notes

• For crisp-tender beans, don’t skip the blanching step
• Slice beef when partially frozen for easier thin cuts
• Substitute asparagus or snap peas for green beans
• Add 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms with the aromatics if desired
• For extra restaurant-style flavor, finish with 1 tbsp butter at the end

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (without rice)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Why You’ll Love Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry

Perfect for Families

One of the best aspects of this Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry is how quickly it can be prepared—ideal for busy weeknights or any day when you need something tasty in a hurry. This dish totals about 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to serve a satisfying meal without hours spent in the kitchen. Plus, kids love the crunchy texture of the green beans paired with tender beef, making it a family-favorite.

Nutritional Benefits and Simple Ingredients

With a blend of lean beef and vibrant green beans, this stir-fry is not only delicious but also packed with protein and essential vitamins. Beef is a fantastic source of iron, while green beans provide vitamins A, C, and K, making this a nutritious choice. The use of simple, accessible ingredients means you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy this healthy meal!

Flexibility and Budget-Friendly

Another fantastic feature of this stir-fry is its adaptability. You can switch out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. Not a fan of green beans? Try broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas instead. This makes it easy to create a budget-friendly dish tailored to your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak

Beef is the star ingredient of this dish. You can use sirloin for its tenderness or flank steak if you prefer a more robust flavor. For a leaner option, you could also consider chicken or tofu if you’re looking to mix things up.

Green Beans

These bright green beauties don’t just add color; they bring a crunch that complements the tender beef. If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, consider substituting with spiralized zucchini for a lower-carb option.

Fresh Ginger

Ginger adds a fragrant warmth to your stir-fry. If fresh ginger isn’t available, you can use ground ginger—just remember to adjust the amount accordingly to avoid overpowering the flavor!

Ingredient Preparation

Step 1 – Slice the Beef

Thinly slice your beef against the grain. This technique ensures tenderness and allows the beef to absorb the marinade better.

Step 2 – Trim the Green Beans

Snip the ends off the green beans and rinse them in cold water. This step keeps them fresh and crisp.

Step 3 – Mince the Garlic and Ginger

Finely mince the garlic cloves and fresh ginger. This combination adds a depth of flavor that will elevate your stir-fry.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1 – Initial Preparation

Start by preheating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil, ensuring it gets nice and hot before adding ingredients.

Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly

Toss in the sliced beef first, ensuring an even layer to achieve that sought-after sear. As it begins to brown (about 3-4 minutes), add the garlic and ginger. Mix well to ensure all flavors permeate the beef.

Step 3 – Cooking and Finishing Touches

Once the beef is browned, add the green beans along with the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and Sriracha. Stir everything until the beans are bright green and just tender, around 5 minutes. To thicken the sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in water and add it to the pan, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Tips for an Even Tastier Version

Adding Extra Ingredients

Consider tossing in some sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious boost.

Techniques to Enhance Flavor

Marinate the beef for 30 minutes in soy sauce and sesame oil before cooking for an even richer flavor.

Adjustments for Preferences

If you’re sensitive to spicy food, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also explore other sauces like teriyaki for different taste profiles.

Recipe Variations and Adaptations

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, replace beef with tofu or tempeh. Ensure to marinate the tofu for maximum flavor absorption.

Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. For a low-carb version, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.

Other Adaptations

Transform the dish seasonally by incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini in the summer or Brussels sprouts in fall.

Serving Suggestions

Salad or Soup Ideas

A light cucumber salad or a hot and sour soup pairs well with this stir-fry for a balanced meal.

Hearty Sides

If you’re looking for something more filling, prepare some homemade bread or roasted butternut squash as a delightful side.

Drink Recommendations

Enhance your meal with a glass of chilled white wine, a refreshing iced tea, or even a mocktail of lemonade with mint.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry for up to 2 months.

Reheating Techniques

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam. Alternatively, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Portioning Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Portion out leftovers into single servings for quick lunches throughout the week.

Nutritional Information and Benefits

Nutritional Values per Serving

This Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry generally contains around:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Ingredient Benefits

The beef provides a great source of protein and iron, while green beans contribute necessary vitamins and dietary fiber.

Recommended Portions

A serving of 1.5 cups provides a fulfilling meal, while leaving room for sides if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Issue 1 – Overcooking the Beef

To ensure tender and juicy beef, avoid overcooking. Remove it from the heat as soon as it turns brown.

Issue 2 – Adding Too Much Sauce

Be mindful not to drown the dish in sauce. Balance is key; you can always serve extra sauce on the side!

Issue 3 – Neglecting Vegetables

Don’t skimp on the veggies! They add flavor, nutrition, and texture that enhance the entire dish.

Inspiring Conclusion

In conclusion, Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry is more than just a recipe; it’s a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. It’s simple yet flavorful, making it a fantastic choice for busy families wanting to enjoy healthy meals together. Dive in and explore your own twists on this dish! Don’t forget to share your delightful culinary creations with friends and family—they’ll surely appreciate your efforts!

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
  Yes! You can chop the ingredients the day before and store them in the fridge for a quick weeknight meal.
• What are the best substitutes for beef?
  Chicken, tofu, or tempeh are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a change or following a special diet.
• How can I increase the spiciness?
  Add a few more drops of Sriracha or include sliced fresh chili peppers to take the heat up a notch.
• Is this dish freezer-friendly?
  Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Can I add more vegetables?
  Definitely! Feel free to experiment with any seasonal veg you have on hand, like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli.
• What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
  Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or use the microwave in 30-second increments to prevent overcooking.
• Does this recipe work with other types of protein?
  Yes, shrimp or fish can also be great alternatives to beef if you prefer seafood.
• Are there any low-sodium options?
  Yes, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a healthier alternative.
• What should I serve with this dish?
  It pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa, and a side salad can balance out the meal.
• Can I make it vegan?
  Yes, simply replace the beef with tofu and use a vegan-friendly soy sauce.

Get cooking and enjoy your Beef and Green Beans Stir-Fry experience! Happy eating!