Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further than this easy Chinese Beef Cabbage Stir Fry recipe! This dish captures the essence of authentic Chinese takeout, bringing the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. Tender beef strips are expertly stir-fried with crisp-tender cabbage, vibrant vegetables, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce that will leave you wanting more. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is designed for even the busiest weeknights. The incredible flavor comes from a simple yet perfectly balanced sauce, and the ingredients are readily available at your local grocery store.
This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality stir-fry with minimal fuss, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Forget spending money on takeout; this incredibly easy recipe lets you enjoy delicious Chinese food from the comfort of your own home. Ready to experience the deliciousness? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this amazing Chinese Beef Cabbage Stir Fry.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Beef: 600g
- Salt
- Black pepper powder
- Baking soda
- Cornstarch: 3 teaspoons
- Garlic
- White onion
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Carrots
- Chinese cabbage (Baguio pechay)
- Sesame oil
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Beef
- Slice beef into 1/4 inch thick tapered cuts. Add salt, black pepper powder, baking soda, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Stir-fry Beef and Aromatics
- Heat oil in a frying pan over moderate heat. Add the marinated beef and pan-fry for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Reduce the oil in the pan. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook for 15-20 seconds over moderate heat. Add sliced white onion and cook for about a minute until translucent.
- Add the pan-fried beef to the pan with the garlic and onion. Mix in crushed black pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Let the beef absorb the seasonings.
Step 3. Add and Cook Vegetables
- Add carrot strips and optionally green beans. Then, add the Chinese cabbage (Baguio pechay). Stir-fry for another 5 minutes. Vegetables can be left slightly crunchy.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Drizzle with sesame oil and stir for another minute. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds (optional).
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Baking soda and cornstarch tenderize the beef and absorb excess water.
- Use moderate flame to prevent burning the garlic and achieve a nice brown on the beef.
- Don't add salt after adding soy sauce and oyster sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage is traditional, but you can substitute with green cabbage, bok choy, or even savoy cabbage. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. What can I do if I don't have all the sauce ingredients?
Don't worry! You can adjust the sauce to what you have. Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch are the most crucial. Feel free to omit or reduce other ingredients based on your pantry.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry during cooking. You can also add a chopped fresh chili pepper for extra heat.
This easy Chinese Beef Cabbage Stir Fry recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the hassle of takeout. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and impressive results that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. So, get cooking and experience the joy of creating restaurant-quality food in your own kitchen!