Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy Garlic Sauce is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish inspired by Asian cuisine. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, then tossed in a savory soy-garlic sauce that ties everything together with bold umami flavor.

This stir-fry is perfect for weeknight dinners—it’s light yet satisfying, balanced with protein and vegetables, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Served over steamed rice or noodles, it makes a wholesome and complete meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate combination of flavor, freshness, and speed. The soy garlic sauce gives the beef a rich, savory depth, while the vegetables add crunch and nutrition. It’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t require complicated steps, yet tastes like restaurant-quality takeout.

It’s also endlessly customizable—you can use seasonal vegetables, adjust the sauce’s sweetness or spice, and even swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Nutritious & Balanced – Protein-packed beef plus fiber-rich vegetables.
• Better Than Takeout – Fresher, healthier, and more flavorful.
• Customizable – Works with different proteins, sauces, or veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A family favorite that appeals to both kids and adults.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~360 calories per serving (without rice or noodles)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Asian / Chinese-Inspired
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• ½ cup snow peas
• 2 green onions, chopped

For the Soy Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening, mixed with 2 tbsp water)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Marinate beef with soy sauce and cornstarch.
2. Stir-fry beef quickly, then set aside.
3. Stir-fry vegetables until crisp-tender.
4. Mix sauce ingredients, pour over vegetables and beef.
5. Toss everything together and serve hot with rice or noodles.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

• In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil.
• Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (this tenderizes and flavors the beef).

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• In another bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and beef broth.
• Stir in cornstarch slurry and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
• Add beef in batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes until just browned (don’t overcrowd).
• Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

• In the same wok, add broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and snow peas.
• Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return beef to the wok.
• Pour sauce over beef and vegetables.
• Stir well and cook until sauce thickens (2–3 minutes).
• Top with green onions.

How to Serve

• Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions.
• Pair with spring rolls or dumplings for a full Asian-inspired meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• Don’t overcook beef—it should stay juicy.
• Cook on high heat for that “stir-fry” smoky flavor.
• Prep all ingredients before cooking; stir-fry goes fast.

Variations

• Chicken or Shrimp – Swap beef for another protein.
• Spicy Version – Add chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian – Use tofu or tempeh instead of beef.
• Low-Carb – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked beef and sauce (without vegetables) for up to 2 months. Add fresh vegetables when reheating for best results.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of water if sauce is too thick.

Special Equipment Needed

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife for slicing beef and vegetables
• Mixing bowls for marinade and sauce
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Conclusion

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy Garlic Sauce is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a bold soy-garlic sauce, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry proves that healthy meals can be delicious, simple, and exciting.