Spicy Garlic Beef Stir Fry Flavorful Quick Meal

This Spicy Garlic Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender flank steak, crisp snow peas, and aromatics come together in a savory sauce with the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and garlic punch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir fry is fast, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The steak cooks quickly while staying tender, and the vegetables add freshness and crunch. The sauce combines soy, garlic, ginger, and chili for a bold yet balanced flavor profile. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain

• 6 green onions, thinly sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

• 12 ounces snow peas

• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons mirin

• 1 tablespoon chili garlic paste

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

• White sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.

2. Add steak slices in batches, cooking for 3 minutes on each side. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove steak and set aside.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add green onions, garlic, ginger, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 1 minute.

4. Stir in soy sauce, mirin, chili garlic paste, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil and cook until sauce thickens.

5. Return beef to the pan and toss until coated in sauce.

6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color.

• Use chicken or shrimp instead of beef for a different protein option.

• Adjust heat by adding more chili garlic paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• Make it gluten-free by swapping soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

• Serve over rice noodles for an alternative to rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables may lose some crispness upon reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank steak works best, but you can also use skirt steak or sirloin.

How do I slice beef thinly for stir fry?

Slice against the grain while the beef is slightly chilled for easier cutting.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and slice the beef ahead, but cook just before serving for best texture.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has moderate heat from the chili garlic paste. Adjust to taste by adding more or less.

Can I use frozen snow peas?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What can I substitute for mirin?

Use rice vinegar mixed with a little sugar or dry sherry.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Avoid overcooking—just a quick sear keeps the beef juicy and tender.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook the beef in batches to avoid steaming.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

The cornstarch does this naturally when boiled. If you want it thicker, add a little more cornstarch slurry.

What should I serve this with?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles make perfect pairings.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Beef Stir Fry is the ultimate quick and flavorful dinner. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a garlicky, spicy-sweet sauce, it’s a dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but tasty enough to rival takeout. Serve it hot over rice or noodles and enjoy a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.

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