Easy Beef Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Beef Stir Fry is the epitome of quick and tasty. The flank steak is sliced thinly and cooked quickly, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. The vibrant vegetables—broccoli and red bell peppers—add a healthy crunch and a pop of color to the dish. The homemade sauce brings all the flavors together in one bowl, combining the rich umami of soy sauce with the sweetness of honey, the freshness of ginger, and the heat of red pepper flakes. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, all made in one pan for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into small pieces

Sauce:

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

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

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, ginger, garlic, vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and cornstarch. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the flank steak slices and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion, broccoli florets, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
4. Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
5. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is well coated.
6. Serve the stir fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Variations: You can add or swap in other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to suit your preferences.
• Spicy Stir Fry: For more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper to the stir fry.
• Alternative Protein: Swap the flank steak for chicken, beef sirloin, or tofu for a different protein option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for stir fry?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as sirloin or skirt steak. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for tenderness.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add more spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper like jalapeño or serrano to the stir fry.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but fresh vegetables will give you a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess water.

4. How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or a small amount of flour to thicken the sauce. Simply dissolve it in water before adding it to the stir fry.

5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

6. What kind of rice is best to serve with stir fry?

Jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice all work well with stir fry. You can also try serving it with noodles for a different option.

7. Can I use honey substitutes in this recipe?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey. The flavor will slightly differ, but it will still add the necessary sweetness to the sauce.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the stir fry gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative (like tamari) and check that the cornstarch you use is gluten-free.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients if you’re serving more people. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as you may need to cook in batches.

10. Can I add nuts or seeds to this dish?

Yes, adding toasted sesame seeds, cashews, or peanuts would give this stir fry an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Beef Stir Fry is a flavorful, quick, and nutritious meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes. With tender flank steak, crunchy vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this stir fry is a simple and delicious solution that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.

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