Vegetable and Beef Stir Fry

Name: Vegetable and Beef Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cup snap peas; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Meals

I love making this Vegetable and Beef Stir Fry because it combines vibrant vegetables with tender beef, creating a colorful and nutritious dish. It’s quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet healthy. The secret is in the marinade, which infuses the beef with a savory flavor that enhances every bite. Plus, it’s easily customizable based on what vegetables I have on hand or what’s in season, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:22:27.999Z

When I first tried making this stir fry, I was amazed by how quickly I could whip it up. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables and the flavorful beef made my kitchen feel alive with activity. I learned that slicing the beef against the grain helps to keep it tender, which is crucial for a successful stir fry.

My favorite part about this dish is the flexibility it offers. I’ve experimented with various veggies, from broccoli to bell peppers, and it always turns out deliciously. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables while enjoying a healthy meal that never feels repetitive.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Loaded with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
Savory marinade that elevates the flavor of the beef

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is essential for infusing the beef with robust flavor. By using both soy sauce and oyster sauce, you not only enhance the umami profile but also add a touch of sweetness and depth. You can adjust the amount of soy sauce based on your taste preferences or dietary needs—low-sodium soy sauce can be a great substitute for those watching their salt intake. Remember, marinating for at least 10 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, but feel free to extend this to 30 minutes for an even richer flavor.

When marinating, ensure the beef is fully coated and left in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag for even coverage. This technique prevents the beef from becoming mushy and helps maintain a tender texture. For additional flavor, consider adding fresh ginger or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Getting the cooking temperature just right is crucial when stir-frying. Make sure your skillet or wok is fully heated before adding the oil; you should see it shimmer and make a wave when you tilt the pan. This scorching heat creates that sought-after sear on the beef while keeping it juicy inside. Stir-frying is quick, usually only 2-3 minutes for the beef and 3-4 minutes for the vegetables, so it’s essential to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

When you add the garlic, keep a close watch to prevent it from burning. Cook it until fragrant but not brown—this usually takes about 30 seconds. For the vegetables, aim for tender-crisp texture; they should be vibrant in color and still maintain a slight crunch. This not only makes for a more appealing dish but also retains maximum nutrients.

Customizing Your Stir Fry

One of the best aspects of this Vegetable and Beef Stir Fry is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables according to what you have on hand or what’s in season. Asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms make excellent substitutes, and you can even layer in flavors by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving. If you’re looking for additional protein, consider adding tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option, pairing it with a similar marinade to maintain consistency in flavors.

If you plan to make this ahead of time, the beef and vegetables can be prepped and stored separately in the fridge for a day or two. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, being careful not to overcook the veggies. Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, making this recipe not just a quick meal but one that can serve you throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup snap peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all vegetables are washed and prepped before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful stir fry experience.

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the beef is marinating, wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

Cook the Beef

Add the marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

Stir-fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add garlic and all the vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Combine and Finish

Return the beef to the skillet, drizzle with sesame oil, and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes before serving.

Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles for a hearty meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding ginger or a splash of chili sauce for heat. Always prep your ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

To make this stir fry a complete meal, serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which will soak up the savory juices beautifully. Alternatively, you could opt for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still delivers on flavor. Garnishing with sesame seeds or sliced green onions can add an attractive presentation and an extra crunch to every bite.

Pairing this dish with a simple side of sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the meal's overall balance. If you're serving guests, consider preparing a light spring roll or dumpling appetizer to round out your Asian-inspired meal.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your beef is turning out too tough, it may be overcooked. Aim for a maximum cooking time of 3 minutes over high heat, as beef sirloin cooks quickly. To tenderize tougher cuts of beef, you might also try marinating for longer or using a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness before cooking.

In case of flavor imbalance, taste before serving and adjust accordingly; a splash more soy sauce or a sprinkle of sugar can balance out overly salty or bitter notes. Always keep the seasoning light at first, especially with soy sauce, as it's easy to oversalt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or baby corn based on your preferences or what you have in your fridge.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients a day prior and cook just before serving.