Savory Beef Stir Fry with Crisp Vegetables in a Garlic-Ginger Sauce

Garlic Ginger Beef Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender slices of beef, crisp vegetables, and a bold, aromatic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir fry offers a well-balanced combination of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. It’s a wholesome meal that comes together in just minutes and rivals your favorite takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables
• Bold garlic-ginger flavor in every bite
• Healthier alternative to takeout stir fry
• Easily customizable with your favorite veggies
• One-pan dish for easy cleanup
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Can be served with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice
• Balanced sweet, savory, and umami notes
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
1 large carrot, sliced on a diagonal
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped green onions and fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and sear for 2–3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
5. Return the beef to the pan.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Pour the sauce into the skillet, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and herbs.
9. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or your preferred base.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Stir Fry: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with tofu or tempeh, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Different Proteins: Use chicken breast, shrimp, or pork as alternatives to beef.
• Extra Crunch: Add water chestnuts or chopped peanuts for texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin is gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for stir fry?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal as they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes work well—just adjust the cooking time slightly and avoid overcooking.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat from optional red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a non-spicy version.

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the beef in advance. Cook just before serving for best results.

What should I serve with this stir fry?

It pairs well with white rice, brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large wok or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water and stir it in during the final minutes of cooking.

Can I omit hoisin sauce?

You can substitute with oyster sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar if needed.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free.

How do I slice beef thinly for stir fry?

Freeze the beef for 20–30 minutes before slicing—it makes it easier to get thin, even strips.

Conclusion

Garlic Ginger Beef Stir Fry is a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and nutrition. With tender beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights or when you crave a satisfying homemade Asian-inspired dish. Whether served over rice or noodles, it’s a guaranteed hit for both family dinners and meal prep.

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