Citrus-Infused Beef Stir Fry
This Citrus-Infused Beef Stir Fry is a delightful weeknight meal that transforms leftover steak into a vibrant dish full of flavor. Featuring tender beef strips marinated in a zesty orange sauce combined with fresh veggies like broccoli and bell pepper, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also nutritious. The bright flavors of orange and ginger perfectly complement the savory beef, making it appealing to the whole family. Consider adding your choice of vegetables to customize it to your liking. Serve it over fluffy brown rice or hearty bulgur for a satisfying meal that comes together in no time.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked bulgur or brown rice
2 cups (cooked according to package instructions)
orange juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed if possible)
rice vinegar
1 tablespoon (n/a)
light soy sauce
1 tablespoon (n/a)
light brown sugar
1 tablespoon (n/a)
fresh minced ginger
1/2 tablespoon (minced finely)
round steak
1 lb (cut into strips)
broccoli florets
12 ounces (washed and trimmed)
canola oil
2 tablespoons (to be used for cooking)
red bell pepper
1 (cut into strips)
salt and pepper
to taste (n/a)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Citrus-Infused Beef Stir Fry?
It is a vibrant weeknight meal featuring tender beef strips, fresh broccoli, and red bell peppers tossed in a zesty orange and ginger sauce.
What kind of beef is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for round steak cut into strips, but you can also use leftover cooked steak to save time.
Can I use leftover steak for this stir fry?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to transform leftover steak into a fresh and flavorful new meal.
What are the main ingredients in the citrus sauce?
The sauce is made from orange juice, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, light brown sugar, and fresh minced ginger.
What vegetables are included in this stir fry?
This recipe uses 12 ounces of broccoli florets and one red bell pepper cut into strips.
Is this beef stir fry a healthy option?
Yes, it is considered a nutritious meal as it contains lean protein and a variety of fresh vegetables.
What should I serve with the Citrus-Infused Beef Stir Fry?
It is traditionally served over fluffy brown rice or hearty cooked bulgur.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
Since it uses quick-cooking beef strips and fresh veggies, it is a fast meal ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I make this stir fry spicy?
Yes, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange sauce for extra heat.
What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
If you do not have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute.
Should I use fresh or bottled orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice works well too.
How should I cut the round steak?
The round steak should be cut into thin strips, ideally across the grain to ensure tenderness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the light soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and ensure your grain choice is gluten-free.
What is the best oil for stir-frying beef?
Canola oil is used in this recipe because it has a high smoke point, which is necessary for high-heat stir-frying.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?
Absolutely, you can customize the dish by adding snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy?
Stir-fry the broccoli quickly over high heat so it remains tender-crisp rather than soft.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken breast strips would be an excellent alternative to beef in this citrus-based recipe.
What if I do not have fresh ginger?
You can use ground ginger in a pinch, though the flavor will be less vibrant. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for every half tablespoon of fresh ginger.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Citrus-Infused Beef Stir Fry?
While you can freeze the cooked beef and sauce, the vegetables may lose their crisp texture upon thawing.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the sweet and savory orange flavor profile is generally very family-friendly and appealing to kids.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on using 1 lb of steak and 2 cups of rice/bulgur, it typically serves about 4 people.
Can I omit the brown sugar?
Yes, you can omit it or replace it with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetener.
What is light soy sauce?
Light soy sauce is thinner and saltier than dark soy sauce; it adds savory flavor without darkening the ingredients significantly.
How do I reheat this stir fry?
Reheat in a microwave or quickly toss it in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Do I need a wok to make this?
No, a large non-stick skillet works just as well as a wok for this recipe.
What is a good substitute for canola oil?
Vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or peanut oil are all good substitutes due to their high smoke points.
How do I ensure the beef stays tender?
Avoid overcooking the beef strips; sear them quickly over high heat and remove them if they finish before the veggies.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture from steaming the stir fry.
What side dishes go well with this?
Besides rice or bulgur, a simple cucumber salad or spring rolls make great accompaniments.