Beef with Snow Peas

Introduction

Beef with snow peas is a classic Chinese stir-fry dish that is healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. Tender strips of beef and crisp snow peas are tossed in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger, for a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. This recipe takes only 25 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 450g beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 200g snow peas
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add garlic and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add sliced bell pepper and snow peas and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
5. Drizzle with sesame oil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Vegetarian/Vegan Version

To make a vegetarian/vegan version of this dish, simply substitute the beef with firm tofu or seitan. Use vegetable broth in place of the water in the sauce, and omit the oyster sauce. You can also add other vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, baby corn, or bamboo shoots to customize the dish to your liking.

Variations

• Add sliced onions, carrots, or broccoli florets to the stir-fry for added flavor and color.
• Use chicken, pork, or shrimp instead of beef for a different protein option.
• Add a kick of spice by adding sliced chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the stir-fry.
• Serve over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

Beef with snow peas is a classic Chinese stir-fry dish that is both healthy and delicious. This easy recipe takes only 25 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love. With its tender beef strips, crisp snow peas, and flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

FAQ

What type of beef should I use for Beef with Snow Peas?

We recommend using flank steak, sirloin or tenderloin for this dish. These cuts are tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for stir-frying.

Can I use frozen snow peas instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen snow peas instead of fresh ones. However, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

Do I need to marinate the beef before stir-frying?

Yes, marinating the beef will help to tenderize it and add flavor to the dish. You can marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Can I substitute oyster sauce with soy sauce?

No, oyster sauce and soy sauce have different flavors and consistencies. Oyster sauce has a thicker consistency and a sweet-salty flavor, while soy sauce is thinner and saltier. Oyster sauce is an important ingredient in this recipe and should not be substituted.

How do I prevent the snow peas from becoming soggy?

To prevent the snow peas from becoming soggy, make sure to stir-fry them quickly over high heat. You can also blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds before stir-frying to help them stay crispy.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that all the vegetables are cooked evenly.

How do I slice the beef thinly?

To slice the beef thinly, freeze it for 30 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to slice thinly against the grain.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, the snow peas may become softer upon reheating.

Can I serve this dish with rice?

Yes, this dish pairs well with steamed rice. You can also serve it with noodles or quinoa for a healthier option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.