Beef with Oyster Sauce is a delightful dish that captures the essence of flavorful Asian cuisine. This recipe takes tender slices of beef and elevates them with the rich umami flavor of oyster sauce, making it a perfect meal to impress your family or guests. Paired with crisp vegetables, it not only fills your belly but also delights your taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, and it comes together in just a few steps. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or someone wanting to impress at a special gathering, Beef with Oyster Sauce fits the bill. The combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory sauce creates a well-rounded dish that is sure to be a hit at your dining table.
How to Make Beef with Oyster Sauce
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef flank steak (or skirt steak)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon peanut oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 white onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 thumb ginger, sliced
• 1 lb asparagus, tough ends removed and cut to bite-sized pieces (or 1 bell pepper)
Directions:
- Add the beef and the rest of the marinating ingredients into a medium-sized bowl. Mix well and allow to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the beef and spread out into a single layer without overlapping. Cook until the bottom turns golden, about 1 minute. Flip to cook the other side until just cooked through, another minute. Transfer the beef to a large plate.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
- Add the asparagus and cook until just starting to soften, about 1 minute.
- Stir the sauce again to fully dissolve the cornstarch, then pour it into the pan. Stir a few times until it thickens.
- Return the beef to the pan and stir to coat everything well. Transfer everything to a big plate and serve hot as a main dish.
How to Serve Beef with Oyster Sauce
This dish is best served hot and can be accompanied by a side of steamed rice or noodles. The sauce soaks into the rice or noodles beautifully, enhancing the overall meal experience. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced scallions for an added touch of flair!
How to Store Beef with Oyster Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
Tips to Make Beef with Oyster Sauce
- For extra tenderness, select high-quality beef and slice it against the grain.
- Letting the beef marinate longer enhances the flavor, so try to give it at least 30 minutes if you have the time.
- Feel free to substitute the asparagus with other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, according to your preference.
Variation
You can easily switch up the protein in this recipe. Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu are great alternatives that will work wonderfully with the same marinade and sauce.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of sauce instead of oyster sauce?
- Yes, you can use hoisin sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and be sure to verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinated beef and sauce in advance. Just cook everything together right before serving!
With this Beef with Oyster Sauce recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your kitchen. Happy cooking!