Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry

Are you searching for a quick and delicious weeknight meal that brings the flavors of the Asian kitchen right to your dining table? Look no further than this vibrant Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry! Tender pieces of beef paired with earthy mushrooms and a savory sauce create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this stir-fry is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to achieving that perfect Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry lies in the balance of flavors and the right cooking techniques. Using high-quality beef tenderloin or flank steak ensures tenderness, while the combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and just a hint of sugar creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the meat and mushrooms. The cornstarch helps to create a silky texture that clings to the ingredients beautifully. Plus, cooking everything in a hot skillet or wok ensures that you achieve that coveted stir-fry sear without overcooking the meat.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into cooking, here’s everything you’ll need to gather to create this Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry:

• 13 oz beef tenderloin or flank steak – diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – divided for cooking and achieving that perfect sear.
• 2 cloves garlic – sliced thinly to infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 7 baby bella mushrooms – quartered for a meaty texture and rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce – for seasoning without overpowering saltiness.
• 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce – adds depth and color to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – used for coating the beef for a tender bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps tenderize the beef for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – enhances the overall umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – adds a delightful richness to the stir-fry.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar – balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch – for thickening the sauce.
• 4 tablespoons water – to create the sauce base.

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

• Wok or large skillet – essential for high-heat cooking and achieving that stir-fry char.
• Wooden spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Knife – for slicing the beef and mushrooms.
• Cutting board – to provide a sturdy surface for your prep work.
• Measuring spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Small bowl – for mixing the sauce ingredients.

Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry Cooking Guide

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking process that will have your taste buds dancing!

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by placing the diced beef tenderloin or flank steak in a bowl. Add the baking soda and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, tossing to coat the beef evenly. This step is crucial for achieving tender, juicy meat.

Step 2: Marinate

Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of reduced-sodium soy sauce to the beef. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your wok or skillet over high heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Increase the heat to high and add the marinated beef to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the quartered baby bella mushrooms and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and 4 tablespoons of water. In another bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the mushrooms. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and mushrooms, stirring to combine. Then add the cornstarch slurry and mix well, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and mushrooms beautifully.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from heat and serve your Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy this deliciously quick meal with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking to modify this recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, consider the following swaps:

• Beef alternatives: Substitute the beef with chicken, tofu, or tempeh for a different protein source.
• Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Vegetable varieties: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to increase the vegetable content.
• Low-sodium option: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to reduce salt intake.

Learn from These Mistakes

Avoid common pitfalls to ensure your Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry turns out perfect every time:

• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too much beef at once, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not slicing the beef properly: Ensure your beef is sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Using cold meat: Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking for even cooking.
• Skipping the marinade: Don’t skip the marinating step, as it enhances flavor and tenderness.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Questions People Ask

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While baby bella mushrooms are great, you can also use shiitake, button, or even portobello mushrooms for different flavors and textures.

What can I serve with Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You can also enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

How do I make it spicier?

For a spicy kick, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry as it cooks, or drizzle some sriracha over the finished dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Marinate the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time for a quick cooking process later.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Looking for more easy meal ideas? Check out these quick recipes:

• Quick and Easy Chicken Curry
• 15-Minute Vegan Sweet Potato Curry
• 30-Minute Vegan Chili
• Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

Before You Go

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey to create a mouthwatering Beef And Mushroom Stir-Fry! I hope you find this dish as delightful as I do. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Happy cooking!