Welcome to a classic that never disappoints: the Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe! This dish takes rich tender beef and pairs it with crispy vegetables in a savory oyster sauce that gives your taste buds a delightful experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests during a weekend feast, it’s nothing short of fantastic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a speedy meal, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of oyster sauce and soy sauce brings a savory depth that you’ll crave again and again.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies and protein to suit your tastes while still enjoying its classic essence.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family meal or a dinner party, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few essential ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s how each component shines through:
- Beef Flank Steak: Known for its tender texture, this cut absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- Cornstarch: Essential for giving the beef a silky coating and helping to thicken the sauce.
- Oyster Sauce: The star of the dish, providing an umami punch that’s hard to resist.
- Bok Choy: Adds a crunchy, refreshing bite that complements the savory sauce perfectly.
Variations
One of the best things about this Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe is how adaptable it is. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with these simple tweaks:
- Try Different Vegetables: Swap the Bok choy with broccoli or bell peppers for a variation in texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or fresh chilies to give the dish an exciting kick.
How to Make Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a resealable bag, combine the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and egg white. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together to tenderize and infuse the beef.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches for about one minute on each side until just browned, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This way, you’ll seal in the juices while achieving a delightful caramelization.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add vegetables, starting with onions, cooking for a couple of minutes until they soften slightly, then add Bok choy. This brief sauté keeps them crisp-tender.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the pan, toss everything with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Cook for just another minute as the sauce thickens slightly, then serve your masterpiece over rice or noodles for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Pro Tips for Making Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe
- Marinating Magic: If time allows, marinate the beef longer for even richer flavor absorption.
- Pan Mastery: Use a well-heated, large skillet to achieve that perfect sear without overcooking.
- The Sauce Factor: Balance the sauce by tasting as you go, making adjustments to suit your palate.
- Easy Tricks: Cut all ingredients ahead of time to ensure seamless cooking without missing a beat.
How to Serve Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your dish with toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for a refreshing burst that heightens both the presentation and flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish is splendidly served over fluffy steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried noodles, making it a comforting meal that satisfies.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate the presentation by plating atop a wooden board or in antique-style bowls, perhaps adding chopsticks on the side to create an authentic and interactive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pack any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors may even intensify overnight!
Freezing
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked beef and sauce separately from the vegetables. This way, you can thaw what you need for an effortlessly delicious meal later!
Reheating
Gently reheat in a skillet on low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce without drying out the beef.
FAQs
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Can I substitute oyster sauce if I don’t have it?
You can mix hoisin sauce and soy sauce as an alternative, though it will alter the taste slightly. The unique flavor of oyster sauce is key to the original dish’s charm.
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How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free. Always double-check all ingredient labels for hidden gluten.
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Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with firm tofu or a meaty mushroom like portobello, and use a vegetarian oyster sauce for a delightful vegetarian-friendly dish.
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What other protein can I use?
Chicken, shrimp, or even pork are excellent alternatives. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure each protein is cooked perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe that’s both nostalgic and adventurous. It’s a quick way to travel the world at your dinner table. I hope you enjoy making and indulging in this dish as much as I do. Go ahead, try it out, and let your kitchen be filled with the irresistible aroma of this culinary delight!
Print
Beef in Oyster Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 3–4 servings
- Category: Stir-Fry
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This savory beef in oyster sauce is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender marinated beef with crisp vegetables, all coated in a rich oyster sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it offers a delicious balance of umami flavors and fresh greens, served best over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Marinated Beef
- 1 pound beef flank steak
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 beaten egg white
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons diced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Vegetables
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 2 bunches of Bok choy
Oyster Sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: Add thinly sliced beef to a resealable bag with cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, egg white, sesame oil, diced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 1 minute per side until browned, then remove and set aside on paper towels. Repeat with remaining beef.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Cook the chopped onion for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent. Add Bok choy and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender and vibrant green.
- Combine and Finish: Return beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Ribeye or sirloin can be used instead of flank steak for different textures.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
- Adjust the oyster sauce or soy sauce according to taste preferences.
- Ensure the vegetables are cooked until crisp-tender for the best texture balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
