Family-Style Szechuan Beef Stir-Fry
This Family-Style Szechuan Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful twist on a traditional Chinese dish, specially adapted for American palates. Featuring tender beef flank steak marinated in a savory blend of reduced sodium soy sauce and dark sesame oil, this meal balances flavors with fresh vegetables like crisp bell peppers, sweet baby corn, and vibrant pea pods. It’s a quick and easy one-dish meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring the whole family enjoys a healthy and flavorful dinner. Serve it steaming over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying experience.
N/A
Servings
150
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef flank steak
1 lb (sliced into 1/8-inch strips)
reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons
dark sesame oil
4 teaspoons (divided)
sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons
cornstarch
1 teaspoon
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
fresh ginger
1 tablespoon (minced)
crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon
red bell pepper
1 small (cut into 1-inch pieces)
frozen baby corn
8 ounces (thawed)
pea pods
1/4 lb (julienned)
hot cooked rice
3 cups (for serving)
Instructions
1
Begin by slicing the beef flank steak lengthwise into two strips, then cut across the grain into thin (1/8-inch) strips to ensure tenderness.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the reduced sodium soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of dark sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well and add the beef strips, ensuring they are evenly coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3
Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the crushed garlic, minced ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4
Add the red bell pepper and thawed baby corn to the skillet. Stir-fry for approximately 1.5 minutes, or until the peppers start to soften.
5
Include the julienned pea pods and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until all the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
6
Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
7
Now, in the same skillet, add half of the marinated beef strips. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining beef.
8
Once all the beef is cooked, return the vegetables to the skillet, mixing everything together gently. Heat through for another minute.
9
Serve immediately over hot, cooked rice and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
15g
Carbs
10g
Protein
1.25g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this Szechuan beef stir-fry?
The recipe uses one pound of beef flank steak, sliced into thin 1/8-inch strips.
How many calories are in a serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
What type of soy sauce is recommended?
The recipe calls for two tablespoons of reduced sodium soy sauce to manage salt content.
How long should the beef marinate?
The beef should be marinated in the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch mixture for at least 15 minutes.
What vegetables are included in the stir-fry?
The dish includes red bell pepper, frozen baby corn (thawed), and julienned pea pods.
How should the beef be sliced for maximum tenderness?
Slice the flank steak lengthwise into two strips, then cut across the grain into thin 1/8-inch strips.
Is this recipe spicy?
It contains 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, providing a mild Szechuan heat.
What type of oil is used for cooking?
The recipe uses dark sesame oil, divided between the marinade and the stir-fry process.
How much ginger is required?
You will need one tablespoon of minced fresh ginger.
How many cloves of garlic are used?
Two crushed garlic cloves are used to flavor the oil.
Why is cornstarch added to the marinade?
Cornstarch helps to coat the beef, aiding in browning and creating a light sauce.
How long do you stir-fry the red bell pepper and baby corn?
They should be stir-fried for approximately 1.5 minutes until they start to soften.
How are the pea pods prepared?
The pea pods should be julienned before being added to the wok.
What is the recommended heat setting for the skillet or wok?
A medium-high heat setting is used to ensure quick cooking and proper searing.
Why is the beef cooked in batches?
Cooking the beef in two batches prevents overcrowding the pan, ensuring the meat browns rather than steams.
What should this stir-fry be served with?
It is best served immediately over three cups of hot, cooked rice.
How much protein does this meal provide?
The recipe contains 10 grams of protein per serving.
What is the total fat content?
There are 6.25 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
The dish contains 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fiber is in a serving?
Each serving provides 1.25 grams of fiber.
Is sugar used in this recipe?
Yes, 1.5 teaspoons of sugar are included in the marinade to balance the savory flavors.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 12 total ingredients listed, including the rice for serving.
What makes this a 'family-style' meal?
It is adapted for American palates and designed as a quick, healthy one-dish meal for weeknights.
Can I use frozen baby corn?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions using 8 ounces of frozen baby corn that has been thawed.
How long does it take to cook the pea pods?
The pea pods only require about 30 seconds of stir-frying to remain vibrant and tender-crisp.
What do I do after the vegetables are tender?
Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside while you cook the beef.
How long does it take to brown the beef?
The beef strips take about 2-3 minutes per batch to cook through.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe due to its lean protein and fresh vegetable content.
Can I use a regular skillet if I don't have a wok?
Yes, a large skillet can be used as an alternative to a wok.
What is the origin of the flavors in this dish?
The flavors are based on Chinese Szechuan cuisine, featuring ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.