Ready for a lighter fare? It’s time for a beef stir fry!

Stir fry is a quick and simple method for making a delicious and healthy dinner.  It’s easy to change up the ingredients to customize the recipe to your own preferences.

Here are a few tips to make your beef stir fry amazing:

1. Use sirloin steak. Sirloin soaks up more of the flavors than other cuts, however, you can also use flank or chuck steak for this recipe.
2. Marinade your beef ahead of time. The minimum time for a good marinade is 15 to 30 minutes in the refrigerator, but 24 hours will add the most flavor to your meat.
3. Always slice your meat across the grain. This will break down the fibers and make them much more tender.
4. Don’t overcook the meat. Once the beef is no longer pink, it’s done!  Overcooking will leave it dry and tasteless.
5. If you’re using frozen vegetables, give them time to thaw before cooking. Use a paper towel to pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

First, the Teriyaki Sauce

Decide if you want to use a pre-made store-bought sauce or make your own.  Making your own is easy, just combine all of these ingredients in a saucepan, whisk, and heat until it begins to boil, and then reduce to a simmer:

• ½ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Then add ¼ cup of cold water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a mixing bowl and whisk until combined.  Pour into the sauce and keep on a low simmer.  Whisk until thickened.

Beef Stir Fry Ingredients:

• 1 pound TBS sirloin steak, sliced into thin, 2-inch strips
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cups mixed vegetables – snap peas, carrots, broccoli, etc.
• 1 8-oz can sliced water chestnuts, drained
• 2 medium green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Marinade the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and black pepper. Make sure all pieces are coated well.
2. If you will be making your own sauce, prepare according to the directions above and set aside.
3. Brown the beef in a wok over medium heat using 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Remove browned meat and set aside.
4. Use the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the bell pepper and mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. Add the water chestnuts and return the meat to the wok. Pour sauce over the mixture and toss to coat.  Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7. Serve immediately over white or brown rice.

We know preparing healthy meals for your family is important.  That’s why The Butcher Shop always carries locally sourced meats and produce from farms right here in Southern Oregon.  At TBS, you’ll find the perfect cut of meat for your meal plus fresh-baked breads, fresh fruit and vegetables, local wine and beers, and even quality food especially for your canine.  Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.