Hunan Beef Stir-Fry
Tender beef slices and crisp vegetables tossed in a fiery, tangy sauce. This classic Chinese-American stir-fry is packed with bold flavors from ginger, garlic, and chili peppers, and comes together in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Velvet the Beef
- b.In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef, 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 3 tsp (1 tbsp) of the cornstarch, and 1 tbsp of the vegetable oil.
- c.Mix thoroughly until each piece of beef is coated. This process, known as velveting, ensures the beef stays tender and moist.
- d.Set aside to marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, chicken broth, doubanjiang, sugar, and the remaining 1 tsp of cornstarch.
- c.Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set the sauce aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sear the Beef
- b.Heat a wok or large, heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Add 1.5 tbsp of vegetable oil.
- c.Carefully add half of the marinated beef in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- d.Sear for 60-90 seconds per side, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon to a clean plate.
- e.Repeat with the remaining beef, adding more oil if needed.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables
- b.Reduce heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1.5 tbsp of oil to the same wok.
- c.Add the minced ginger, garlic, and whole dried red chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of water and cover for 1 minute to lightly steam the broccoli.
- e.Add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until all vegetables are crisp-tender.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the wok with the vegetables.
- c.Give the prepared sauce a quick re-whisk and pour it into the wok.
- d.Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes as the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- e.Remove from heat, stir in the chopped scallions, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier slicing, place the beef in the freezer for 20-30 minutes until firm but not frozen.
- 2Always slice beef against the grain to break up muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.
- 3Prepare all your ingredients (mise en place) before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a very fast process.
- 4Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding ingredients to achieve the perfect sear and 'wok hei' (breath of the wok) flavor.
- 5Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the beef in batches to ensure it sears properly rather than steams.
- 6For a milder dish, use fewer dried chilies or remove their seeds before cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast, pork loin, or firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Vegetable Add insVegetable Add-ins
Incorporate other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, carrots, water chestnuts, or baby corn. Add them along with the broccoli or bell peppers depending on their cooking time.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
For added texture, toss in a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews at the end.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your chili bean paste (doubanjiang) is certified gluten-free.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The flank steak provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall body strength.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli and red bell peppers are packed with Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system. They also provide Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and essential minerals like potassium.
Metabolism Support
The capsaicin found in the dried red chilies and doubanjiang can provide a temporary boost to your metabolism and may aid in fat oxidation.
Aromatic Power
Ginger and garlic are not just for flavor; they contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, including improved digestion and heart health.
Frequently asked questions
This recipe contains approximately 510 calories per serving, excluding any rice or noodles it's served with.