Craving a delicious and authentic-tasting Chinese beef bowl but short on time? This recipe delivers incredible umami flavor in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Forget complicated takeout orders and lengthy prep times – this recipe utilizes simple ingredients and clever techniques to create a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. We're talking tender, flavorful beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.
This quick and easy Chinese beef bowl is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Say goodbye to takeout menus and hello to homemade happiness! Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this flavorful bowl of goodness together.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Wooden spoon
- Fork
Ingredients
- Ground beef (minced beef): 1 pound
- Onion: 1
- Pepper (red or green): 1
- Garlic
- Chives
- Oyster sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Soy sauce
- Sesame seed oil
- Mirin or Chinese rice wine
- Sugar
- Black pepper (or white pepper)
- Vegetable oil or coconut oil: a couple of tablespoons
- Chili flakes (optional)
- Fried egg (optional)
- Rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Umami Sauce & Stir-fry Vegetables
- Combine oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, mirin (or rice wine), sugar, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and pepper (if using), and stir-fry for 8-10 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
- Add garlic and stir-fry briefly.
Step 2. Cook & Crumble the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pan and break it up using a wooden spoon and fork until it’s completely crumbled. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until browned and any excess water has evaporated.
Step 3. Simmer in Sauce & Garnish
- Pour the sauce into the pan and stir-fry for another 6-8 minutes over medium heat, until the sauce has thickened and reduced.
- Stir in the chives (or spring onions).
Step 4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve over rice. Garnish with chili flakes and a fried egg (optional).
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference based on the sweetness of the sauces you use.
- If you don't like peppers, omit them from the recipe.
- Spring onions would be a better garnish than chives.
- Fat from the beef adds flavour.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef for this recipe?
Yes! Sirloin, flank steak, or even thinly sliced stew beef will work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of your cut.
2. What can I substitute if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms would all be delicious additions or replacements.
This quick Chinese beef bowl recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying a meal can be without sacrificing time or effort. Enjoy the flavorful combination of tender beef and vibrant vegetables, and don't be surprised if this becomes a new family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try and savor every umami-packed bite!