Description
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender beef and crisp Chinese yam, complemented by bell pepper and onion in a savory soy-based sauce. This easy-to-make dish balances textures and umami, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
Vegetables
- 1 medium Chinese yam (nagaimo or yamaimo), peeled and cut into thin slices or matchsticks
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred), divided
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
Other
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Optionally, toss the beef with cornstarch to aid in thickening the sauce later.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and cut the Chinese yam into thin slices or matchsticks. Thinly slice the bell pepper and onion. Mince the garlic and grate or finely chop the ginger.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add sliced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add grated ginger and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Chinese Yam: Add the Chinese yam slices to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the yam is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and toss to coat evenly. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve alone or with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra thick sauce, toss beef with cornstarch before cooking.
- You can substitute Chinese yam with jicama or water chestnuts for a similar crunchy texture.
- Adjust chili flakes to control the heat level.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce saltiness.
- Serve with steamed jasmine or brown rice to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
