Quick Beef Stir-Fry Recipe – Ginger, Sate & Sesame Flavor

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Beef Stir-Fry Recipe – Ginger, Sate & Sesame Flavor

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this beef stir-fry recipe with you. It’s become a weeknight staple in my kitchen – quick, flavorful, and seriously satisfying. I first made this when I was craving something savory and a little different, and it’s been a hit ever since. It’s a fantastic way to get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average stir-fry. The combination of ginger, Vietnamese sate sauce, and sesame oil creates a really unique and delicious flavor profile. It’s a little sweet, a little savory, and totally addictive. Plus, it’s super versatile – you can easily adjust the spice level or swap out the protein to suit your tastes. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing beef stir-fry:

• 12 oz beef (sirloin or flank steak work great)
• 6 stalks green onions
• 2 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp Vietnamese sate sauce
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients that really make this recipe shine:

• Vietnamese Sate Sauce: This is the secret weapon! It adds a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor. You can usually find it in Asian grocery stores, or online. Don’t skip this – it really elevates the dish.
• Fish Sauce: I know it sounds a little intimidating, but trust me on this one. Fish sauce adds a savory umami flavor that’s essential for authentic Asian cuisine. A little goes a long way!
• Sesame Oil: Just a teaspoon of sesame oil adds a beautiful nutty aroma and flavor. It’s best to use toasted sesame oil for the most impact.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s prep the beef. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, and sesame oil. Toss the beef with the black pepper, then add it to the sauce mixture and give it a good stir. Let it marinate while you get everything else ready.
2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add half the beef (about 6 oz) and stir-fry until it’s cooked through – usually about 3-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
3. Repeat with the remaining beef, adding another tablespoon of oil if needed. Once cooked, remove and set aside.
4. Add a little more oil to the pan if it looks dry. Stir-fry the green onions for about 20-30 seconds, until they start to soften. Then, add the minced ginger and cook for another 20-30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Return the beef to the pan. Add the sauce mixture and Vietnamese sate sauce. Toss everything together until the beef is heated through and nicely coated in the sauce.
6. Finally, garnish with sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes (if you like a little heat!). Serve immediately with jasmine rice or rice noodles.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cooking the beef in batches ensures it gets nicely browned and doesn’t steam.
• Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start stir-frying. Things move quickly!
• For extra flavor, marinate the beef for up to 30 minutes.

Variations

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free soy sauce! It’s a super easy swap.
• Protein Swap: Chicken or pork work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. My friend Sarah always makes this with chicken – she says her kids love it!
• Vegetable Addition: Feel free to add some veggies! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas would be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stir-fry is fantastic served with:

• Jasmine rice – it’s my go-to!
• Rice noodles
• A side of steamed vegetables
• A sprinkle of chopped peanuts

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. It’s honestly just as good the next day!

FAQs

• What cut of beef is best for stir-fry? Sirloin or flank steak are great choices. They’re tender and cook quickly.
• Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the sauce and marinate the beef ahead of time. But I recommend stir-frying it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• What is Vietnamese Sate Sauce and where can I find it? It’s a sweet and savory sauce made with peanuts, spices, and often chili. You can find it at most Asian grocery stores or online.
• Can I adjust the saltiness of the dish? Absolutely! Start with the amount of fish sauce called for, then add a little more to taste.
• What is the best way to prevent the beef from becoming tough? Don’t overcook it! Stir-fry it quickly over high heat and remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through. Marinating also helps tenderize the beef.