There’s something magical about a quick meal that brings everyone together. Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry is just that—a delightful dish that combines tender flank steak with vibrant veggies and a savory sauce. Whether you’re racing against the clock after a long day or looking to impress your family with a homemade feast, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about creating moments around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry
This Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, which means you can whip it up even after a long day. The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for customizing to your taste. You’ll find yourself craving this dish again and again!
Ingredients for Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success. For this Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce and flavorful staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
Flank steak: This cut is perfect for stir-frying due to its tenderness when sliced against the grain.
Vegetable oil: A neutral oil that helps achieve that perfect sear on the beef.
Broccoli florets: These add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your dish.
Red bell pepper: Sweet and juicy, it brings a pop of flavor and color.
Snap peas: These add a delightful crispness and a touch of sweetness.
Green onions: Sliced for garnish, they provide a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
Soy sauce: The backbone of the teriyaki flavor, providing saltiness and umami.
Brown sugar: This balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that glossy finish.
Water: Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth sauce.
Sesame seeds (optional): For garnish, they add a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can swap flank steak for chicken breast or tofu if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for any night of the week. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. This mixture is the heart of your teriyaki flavor. Make sure it’s smooth and well combined. Set it aside for later; it’ll thicken beautifully when added to the stir-fry.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the thinly sliced flank steak. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want that nice sear! Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. This step locks in the flavor.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli, red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for 3-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. The colors alone will make your kitchen feel alive! Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This is where the magic happens—your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 4: Combine and Thicken
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, stirring well to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and veggies. You’ll see it transform into a glossy, mouthwatering glaze. It’s hard to resist at this point!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Serve it hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade dish!
Tips for Success
Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Prep all your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for a good sear.
Adjust the sauce to your taste—add more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
For a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying; a non-stick pan works too.
Cutting board: For slicing your beef and veggies; a sturdy one is best.
Sharp knife: A good chef’s knife makes prep a breeze.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Handy for precise ingredient measurements.
Variations
Protein Swap: Substitute flank steak with chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetable Medley: Add or replace vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Teriyaki: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili oil for an extra kick.
Sweet and Sour: Mix in pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Rice: Serve your Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
Noodles: Try it with soba or udon noodles for a delightful twist.
Drinks: Pair with a light beer or green tea to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with extra sesame seeds and a slice of lime for a pop of color.
FAQs about Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just remember to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How can I make this Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari. It offers the same savory flavor without the gluten, making it a great alternative.
What vegetables can I add to the stir-fry?
The beauty of stir-frying is its versatility! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even baby corn. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure everything stays tender-crisp.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can whisk together the sauce ingredients and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This makes meal prep a breeze on busy nights!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best results, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a joyful experience. The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and delicious flavors come together to make any dinner feel special. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction. Plus, the quick prep and cook time mean you can savor the moment without stress. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the sizzle, and let this Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry become a cherished part of your culinary adventures!
A quick and delicious Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry recipe that combines tender flank steak with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
2 green onions, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced flank steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add broccoli, red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the vegetables, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the beef to the skillet and pour the sauce over the mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
Substitute the flank steak with chicken breast or tofu for a different protein option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
