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Quick Lean Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe with Easy Ginger Sauce

lean beef and vegetable stir-fry - featured image

A fast, fresh, and nutritious stir-fry featuring lean beef and colorful vegetables tossed in a bright, tangy ginger sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) lean beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, bite-sized
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil for stir-frying
  • Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips about 1/4 inch thick. Wash and prepare vegetables as described.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix cornstarch with cold water separately and set aside.
  3. Heat wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Add beef strips in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 1-2 minutes before stirring, cook until browned but tender. Remove beef and set aside.
  5. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Stir-fry white parts of green onions, carrots, broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini until just tender but still crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Return beef to pan, add ginger sauce and cornstarch slurry. Stir constantly to thicken sauce, cooking 1-2 minutes until glossy and coats everything.
  7. Stir in green parts of green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or preferred grain. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use fresh grated ginger for best flavor. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Adjust soy sauce and honey to taste. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick stir-fry, lean beef, vegetable stir-fry, ginger sauce, easy dinner, healthy meal, weeknight recipe