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An overhead shot of a skillet filled with beef stir fry ingredients, showcasing tender beef slices and crisp vegetables being cooked.

Beef Stir Fry (Better Than Takeout!)

A quick and easy Beef Stir Fry recipe that's better than takeout! Learn the secret to perfectly tender beef and a savory homemade sauce, all made in one pan in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tsp cornstarch for velveting
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil for searing
For the Stir Fry & Vegetables
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or other high-heat oil
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ginger freshly grated
For the Stir Fry Sauce
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar packed
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch for thickening
For Garnish
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions sliced

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Wok
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef: Place the thinly sliced beef in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and toss until every piece is lightly coated. Set aside.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in two batches if necessary). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Cook the Vegetables: Add the avocado oil to the same skillet. Add the broccoli florets and carrots, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes until they begin to get tender-crisp. Add the sliced bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Combine and Thicken: Return the seared beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Give the sauce a final whisk and pour it over everything. Stir continuously until the sauce bubbles and thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Serve: Remove from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

Tip 1: Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the beef. This ensures it gets a beautiful brown crust instead of steaming.
Tip 2: Prepare all your ingredients (chopping veggies, mixing the sauce) before you start cooking, as the stir-frying process is very fast.
Tip 3: For extra tender beef, let it sit with the cornstarch for 10-15 minutes before cooking.