Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered how restaurants get their beef so tender and juicy, this beef stir fry with flank steak is your answer. Using a quick marinade and a simple cooking technique, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavor with perfectly cooked beef every time.

Loaded with colorful vegetables, this stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a healthy takeout-style dinner at home. Let’s get cooking and create a beef stir fry so good your family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

For the Beef & Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• ½ cup low-sodium beef broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Vegetables: (Feel free to mix & match)

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas

For Cooking:

• 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional for finishing)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Marinate the Beef

1. In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add sliced flank steak and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge).
   Tip: Thin slices and cornstarch create a velvety texture that keeps the beef tender.

Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Cook the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
2. Add beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through.
3. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.

Stir Fry the Vegetables

1. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
2. Toss in onion, carrots, and broccoli. Stir fry for 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and snap peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.

Combine Everything

1. Return the beef to the pan.
2. Pour in the stir fry sauce and toss to coat.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is fully cooked but still tender.
4. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles.
• For a low-carb option, pair with cauliflower rice or zoodles.

Tips for Perfect Tender Beef

• Slice Against the Grain: Always cut flank steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Quick Cooking: High heat and a fast sear lock in juices. Avoid overcooking to prevent chewiness.
• Velveting: The cornstarch marinade creates a silky coating that keeps beef juicy.

Conclusion

This beef stir fry with flank steak is the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. From the tender beef to the crisp veggies and savory-sweet sauce, every bite tastes like your favorite takeout but made right at home.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a family-friendly dinner, this recipe proves that homemade stir fry can be both easy and restaurant-quality. Save this recipe and make tonight’s dinner unforgettable!

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