Name: Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup cornstarch; Oil for frying; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp chili paste or fresh red chili (optional for heat); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 onion, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

This Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Onions is a flavorful dish that combines crispy beef with a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce. The dish is complemented by the crunch of fresh bell peppers and onions, making it a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With the option for a little heat from chili paste, this dish brings together all the best elements of Chinese-style stir-fries.

Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Onions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Onions is a perfect combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy your cravings for something savory and satisfying. The beef is crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside, and the sauce adds depth with its sweet and savory notes. The fresh vegetables add a nice crunch and balance to the richness of the beef. This dish is easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Serve it over steamed rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s as delicious as it is quick to make.

Ingredients

For the beef:

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cornstarch
Oil for frying

For the sauce:

2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp chili paste or fresh red chili (optional for heat)

Stir-fry vegetables:

1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 onion, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Toss the beef strips in cornstarch until fully coated.
Heat oil in a wok or deep skillet. Fry the beef in batches until crispy. Remove and drain the beef on paper towels.
In a separate pan, sauté the garlic and ginger in a little oil until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper and onion to the pan, and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and pour it into the pan with the vegetables. Let it simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.
Add the crispy beef back into the pan and toss everything together, ensuring the beef is well coated with the sauce.
Garnish with sesame seeds and serve the stir-fry over steamed rice.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Heat Levels: If you prefer more heat, you can increase the chili paste or add red pepper flakes to taste.
Beef Alternatives: You can substitute the beef with chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, you can use any tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Can I make this dish less greasy?

If you want to reduce the oil, try pan-frying the beef instead of deep-frying. You can also use less oil when sautéing the garlic and ginger.

Can I use a non-spicy version?

Simply omit the chili paste or fresh red chili if you prefer a milder version of this dish.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are best for the crisp texture, but frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to cook them until they are heated through but not too soft.

How can I make the beef extra crispy?

For extra crispy beef, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the beef. You can also double-coat the beef in cornstarch for a thicker crust.

Can I add more sauce?

If you like more sauce, feel free to double the sauce ingredients. Just make sure to simmer it long enough to thicken it to your desired consistency.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

What other types of beef can I use?

You can also use skirt steak or flank steak, both of which work well for stir-frying.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the beef and vegetables ahead of time. Keep the beef and vegetables separate until you’re ready to cook.

How do I prevent the beef from being tough?

Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain, and avoid overcooking it in the frying process to keep it tender.

Conclusion

Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Onions is a delicious, quick meal that packs a lot of flavor and texture in every bite. With its crispy beef, savory sauce, and colorful vegetables, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a satisfying stir-fry. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this recipe is highly customizable and sure to become a family favorite.