Creating the perfect beef stir fry with vegetables doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe brings together tender strips of beef and crisp, colorful vegetables in a savory sauce that's ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or meal prep option, this beef stir fry with vegetables delivers restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen.
The beauty of this beef stir fry with vegetables lies in its versatility and speed. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need something nutritious on the table fast. This beef stir fry with vegetables recipe has become a family favorite because it combines protein, vegetables, and incredible flavor in one simple pan.
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This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe. Contextual, in-content links are far more valuable than a group listed at the bottom of the post.
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Ingredients
For the Beef:
- Beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- Cornstarch
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- Broccoli florets
- Red bell pepper, sliced
- Yellow bell pepper, sliced
- Snap peas, trimmed
- Carrots, julienned
- Onion, sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep the Beef and Marinate
- Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain, about ¼ inch thick
- In a bowl, combine beef strips with cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper
- Mix thoroughly and let marinate for 10 minutes while preparing vegetables
- This velvet marinating technique is crucial for tender results in your beef stir fry with vegetables
Prepare All Vegetables
- Cut all vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking
- Keep harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli separate from softer ones like bell peppers
- Have all ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking
- Proper mise en place ensures your stir fry cooks evenly and quickly
Create the Perfect Stir Fry Sauce
- Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch
- Set aside until ready to use
- The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce and coat the ingredients beautifully
- This sauce blend creates the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors
Cook the Stir Fry
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until smoking
- Add marinated beef and cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring, then toss and cook 1 more minute
- Remove beef to a plate and add remaining oil to pan
- Add harder vegetables first (carrots, broccoli) and cook 2 minutes
- Add softer vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, onion) and cook 2 more minutes
- Return beef to pan, add sauce, and toss everything for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens
Expert Cooking Tips
Temperature Control is Key
- Use the highest heat your stove allows for authentic stir fry flavor
- Never overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary
- The pan should be smoking hot before adding ingredients
Beef Preparation Secrets
- Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness
- The cornstarch coating creates a protective barrier that keeps beef juicy
- Don't skip the marinating time; even 10 minutes makes a difference
Vegetable Timing
- Add vegetables in order of cooking time needed
- Keep vegetables moving in the pan for even cooking
- Vegetables should remain crisp-tender, not soft
Sauce Application
- Add sauce only at the very end to prevent vegetables from becoming soggy
- The sauce should coat everything evenly and create a glossy finish
- If sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Protein Alternatives You can easily substitute chicken, pork, or even tofu for the beef in this recipe. Chicken thighs work particularly well and stay incredibly moist. For a leaner option, chicken breast works too, just be careful not to overcook it.
Vegetable Options
- Winter Vegetables: Try Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or winter squash
- Summer Vegetables: Zucchini, yellow squash, and fresh corn work beautifully
- Asian Vegetables: Bok choy, napa cabbage, or water chestnuts add authentic flair
- Frozen Vegetables: Use frozen stir fry mix for convenience; just add them directly to the hot pan
Dietary Modifications
- Low Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce oyster sauce by half
- Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free hoisin sauce
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the cornstarch in the sauce and serve over cauliflower rice
- Paleo: Replace soy-based sauces with coconut aminos
Equipment Recommendations
A large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet is essential for achieving the high heat needed for proper stir frying. Carbon steel woks are ideal because they heat quickly and distribute heat evenly. If you don't have a wok, a large cast-iron skillet works well for this beef stir fry with vegetables recipe.
Essential Tools:
- Large wok or 12-inch skillet
- Sharp knife for slicing beef
- Cutting board
- Multiple small bowls for prep
- Wooden spoon or wok spatula
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage Store leftover beef stir fry with vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The vegetables may soften slightly, but the flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together.
Freezer Storage This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into individual servings before freezing for easy weeknight meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Meal Prep Strategy
- Pre-cut all vegetables and store in separate containers
- Marinate beef up to 24 hours in advance
- Make sauce ahead and store in the refrigerator
- Cook fresh for best texture and flavor
Reheating Instructions Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of oil for 2-3 minutes, or microwave on 50% power to prevent overcooking the beef.
Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
The real secret to exceptional beef stir fry with vegetables isn't just about technique; it's about understanding the marriage of flavors and textures. My grandmother taught me that the key lies in creating layers of flavor by allowing each ingredient to shine individually before bringing them together. She always said the beef should kiss the pan first, creating that beautiful sear that locks in juices and develops complex flavors.
The second secret involves the sauce timing. Never add your sauce until the very last moment, and always have your heat on high. This beef stir fry with vegetables technique ensures that the sauce doesn't steam the vegetables but instead creates a glossy coating that clings perfectly to every piece. The result is a dish where every bite delivers the perfect balance of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and rich, savory sauce.
FAQ
How do Chinese get beef so tender?
Chinese restaurants achieve incredibly tender beef through a technique called velveting, which involves marinating thin-sliced beef in cornstarch, soy sauce, and oil. This beef stir fry with vegetables method creates a protective coating that seals in juices and prevents overcooking.
What vegetables go well with beef?
Vegetables that pair beautifully with beef include broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, and onions. These vegetables complement the rich flavor of beef while providing color, texture, and nutritional balance to your beef stir fry with vegetables.
How to cook stir fry beef so it is tender?
To achieve tender beef in your beef stir fry with vegetables, slice against the grain, marinate with cornstarch and soy sauce, and cook over very high heat for a short time. Never overcook the beef, as it continues cooking when returned to the pan with vegetables.
What veggies go in a beef stir fry?
The best vegetables for beef stir fry with vegetables include broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, onions, and mushrooms. Choose vegetables that cook quickly and maintain their crunch, creating the perfect texture contrast with the tender beef.
Bringing It All Together: Your New Weeknight Hero
This beef stir fry with vegetables recipe represents everything great about quick, healthy home cooking. In just 15 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that satisfies the whole family while providing excellent nutrition. The combination of protein-rich beef and vitamin-packed vegetables makes this dish a complete meal that doesn't require any additional sides, though it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.
The versatility of this beef stir fry with vegetables means you'll never get bored. Switch up the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have in your refrigerator. Once you master this basic technique, you'll find yourself reaching for this beef stir fry with vegetables recipe again and again. Don't forget to try our Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet for another quick weeknight option, or our Instant Pot Beef Tips when you want something that cooks while you handle other tasks.
With love from my kitchen to yours,
Aubrey James
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Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables Recipe
Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak sliced thin against the grain
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 cup snap peas trimmed
- 2 carrots julienned
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Slice beef thin, mix with cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cut all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep harder and softer vegetables separate.
- Whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch together to make the sauce.
- Heat wok or skillet over high heat, add vegetable oil, and sear beef for 2–3 minutes. Remove from pan.
- Add carrots and broccoli to the pan, cook briefly, then add remaining vegetables. Stir-fry until crisp-tender.
- Return beef to the pan, pour in sauce, and toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and glazes.
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