Beef with Oyster Sauce
Introduction
Beef with oyster sauce is a classic dish in Chinese cuisine that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe focuses on tender beef stir-fried with crisp vegetables, infused with the rich umami taste of oyster sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef: 1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain
Oyster sauce: 1/4 cup
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
Water: 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
Bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced
Broccoli: 1 cup, cut into florets
Carrot: 1 medium, julienned
Green onions: 2, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparing the Beef
Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. This helps to ensure tenderness. For best results, freeze the beef for 30 minutes prior to slicing to make it easier to cut.
Marinating the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the beef strips with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a dash of sesame oil. Let it marinate for 20 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preparing the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and set the sauce aside.
Cooking the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef to the skillet and quickly stir-fry until it is browned and cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add your choice of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender-crisp, about 2 to 4 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute until everything is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
Serving the Dish
Serve the beef with oyster sauce hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Tip for Tender Beef
Cutting the beef against the grain is crucial for ensuring tenderness.
Marinating Time
Allowing the beef to marinate longer, up to an hour, can enhance the flavor even further.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Cook techniques
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a quick cooking technique that utilizes high heat to cook food rapidly in a small amount of oil. This method helps retain the beef’s tenderness and flavor.
Marinating
Marinating the beef before cooking enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade with oyster sauce and other ingredients can significantly improve the dish’s overall taste.
Velveting
Velveting is a technique used in Chinese cooking to preserve moisture in meat. It involves coating the beef in a mixture of cornstarch and egg white, which creates a protective barrier during cooking.
High Heat Cooking
Cooking over high heat is essential for achieving a good sear on the beef. This ensures a rich, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Thickening Sauces
After stir-frying, you can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with water. This creates a glossy finish that clings to the beef and vegetables, enhancing presentation and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sauce instead of oyster sauce?
Yes, you can substitute oyster sauce with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for a similar flavor profile.
What cut of beef is best for stir-frying?
Tender cuts such as flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal for stir-frying due to their quick cooking time and tenderness.
How do I ensure my beef stays tender?
To ensure tenderness, slice the beef against the grain and do not overcook it. Marinating before cooking also helps in keeping it tender.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be added to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.
Conclusion
The beef with oyster sauce is a versatile dish that combines tender beef with a rich, umami-packed sauce. This dish not only brings a delightful flavor to the table but also offers a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights. With its simple preparation and minimal ingredients, it can easily become a favorite in any household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce
A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with oyster sauce for a vibrant, nutritious dish.
Chicken with Oyster Sauce
Switch out beef for chicken, using the same oyster sauce to create a succulent dish that’s perfect over rice or noodles.
Tofu with Oyster Sauce
For a vegetarian option, stir-fry tofu with oyster sauce and your choice of vegetables, providing a hearty and satisfying meal.
Beef and Broccoli
Combine the flavors of beef with the nutritious crunch of broccoli, enhanced with a savory oyster sauce for a classic pairing.
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Use leftover rice and toss it with vegetables, protein, and oyster sauce for a quick and flavorful fried rice dish.
Beef Noodles in Oyster Sauce
Serve your beef with oyster sauce over a bed of noodles, adding a touch of sesame oil and green onions for a complete meal.
Seafood Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce
Incorporate shrimp or scallops into your oyster sauce stir-fry, offering a delightful seafood twist to a beloved recipe.
Beef Lettuce Wraps
Serve your cooked beef with oyster sauce in lettuce leaves for a fun and healthy meal that’s perfect for sharing.
