Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for marinating)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- ¼ cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth or water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil.
Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil.
Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until browned (don’t overcrowd the pan).
Remove the beef and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 15–20 seconds until fragrant.
Add bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp.
5. Combine Everything
Return the beef to the pan.
Pour in the sauce mixture and stir well.
Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef beautifully.
Serve
Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish.
Tips for Success
- Slice the beef very thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Keep your wok hot — high heat gives that signature “stir-fry” sear.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness to taste by tweaking the sugar or soy sauce.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or chili oil to the sauce.