Quick and Flavorful Beef and Snow Peas Stir-Fry Recipe
When I’m in the mood for something quick, flavorful, and a little bit special, this Beef and Snow Peas Stir-Fry is one of my top choices. It’s the kind of dish that feels like you’ve put in a lot of effort, even though it comes together in just a few minutes. I love how the tender beef pairs with the crisp, sweet snow peas—there’s something so satisfying about the combination. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this stir-fry never disappoints. Let me show you how I whip up this delicious dish, with a few tips to make it even better!
Did You Know?
Snow peas, also known as Chinese pea pods, are a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine. They are known for their crisp texture and slightly sweet flavor, making them a great addition to stir-fries. Snow peas are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Combining them with tender slices of beef creates a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The beef is often marinated to enhance its flavor and tenderness, making each bite savory and satisfying.
Yield:
4 servings
Ingredients:
1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 cups snow peas, trimmed
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 green onions, sliced
Instructions:
Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, combine the beef slices, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Personal Tip: I’ve found that letting the beef marinate for a little longer—say 30 minutes instead of 15—really helps the flavors soak in and makes the beef even more tender.
Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Personal Tip: For a bit of extra flavor, I sometimes add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds while cooking the beef. It gives the dish a nice depth.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the snow peas, red bell pepper, and green onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Personal Tip: I like to keep the vegetables slightly crunchy, so I’m careful not to overcook them. This keeps the stir-fry fresh and vibrant.
Combine Beef and Vegetables:
Return the beef to the skillet.
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables, and stir to coat evenly.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Personal Tip: Stirring the sauce ingredients together before adding them to the pan ensures everything is evenly coated, giving you that perfect blend of flavors.
Serve:
Serve the Beef and Snow Peas Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles.
Personal Tip: I love serving this stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice—it’s fragrant and complements the flavors beautifully. For a bit of extra kick, drizzle some sriracha on top.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 350 | Fat, 18g | Saturated Fat, 5g | Carbohydrates, 20g | Fiber, 3g | Sugars, 7g | Protein, 28g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
1. Bulk Buying:
Purchase beef, soy sauce, and oyster sauce in bulk. These staples have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run.
2. Versatile Vegetables:
Use seasonal vegetables to make this dish more affordable. Vegetables like bell peppers and snow peas are often cheaper when they are in season and can be bought in larger quantities.
3. Homemade Marinades:
Making your own marinades at home can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. A basic marinade can be made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a sweetener like honey or brown sugar.
4. Beef Storage:
Beef can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer storage. Buy larger cuts of beef and portion them into smaller sizes for freezing. This can save you money and reduce waste.
5. Energy Efficiency:
Cook large batches of stir-fry and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient.
6. Reusable Containers:
Store leftovers in reusable containers. This is not only environmentally friendly but also helps keep your food fresh for longer periods.
7. Affordable Protein:
Beef is a cost-effective source of protein compared to other meats like lamb or seafood. It is also versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a valuable addition to your pantry.
8. Flavor Enhancements:
Add a splash of citrus juice, such as lime or lemon, to brighten the flavors of your stir-fry. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add a refreshing touch.
9. Learning and Sharing:
Join online stir-fry communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community.
10. Creative Presentations:
Enhance the visual appeal of your Beef and Snow Peas Stir-Fry by garnishing with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha for a bit of heat. These additions not only add flavor but also make the dish more appealing and enjoyable to eat.
Let’s Learn About Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a traditional Asian condiment that has been used for thousands of years, originating in China before spreading across East and Southeast Asia. It’s made through a fermentation process that involves soybeans, wheat, water, and salt. The fermentation process breaks down the proteins and carbohydrates in the soybeans and wheat, producing the deep umami flavor that soy sauce is known for.
There are different types of soy sauce, such as light soy sauce, which is saltier and thinner, and dark soy sauce, which is thicker and slightly sweeter due to a longer fermentation period. Traditional soy sauce is made naturally through fermentation, but some commercially produced versions may contain preservatives or additives like caramel coloring, which enhances the color but doesn't affect the taste.
If you prefer a more natural option, look for naturally brewed or organic soy sauce, which undergoes a traditional fermentation process without the addition of artificial ingredients. When shopping for soy sauce, check the label to avoid brands that contain added chemicals or artificial flavors.
Soy sauce is versatile and can be used in marinades, stir-fries, sauces, or even as a dipping sauce. For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative that still delivers all the rich flavor with less salt. Regardless of which variety you choose, soy sauce adds a deep, savory flavor that enhances a wide range of dishes.