Tender beef, fresh asparagus, carrots, and peas come together in a flavorful garlic sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving a homemade takeout-style dish, this stir-fry is both healthy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in just 25 minutes.
• A balanced meal with protein, fresh veggies, and a savory sauce.
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Perfect over steamed rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
• Packed with bold garlic and soy-based flavors for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stir-Fry

• Beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Large carrot, sliced
• Peas (optional)
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)

For the Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce as a substitute)
• Sesame oil
• Honey (or brown sugar)
• Ground ginger
• Cornstarch mixed with water (for thickening)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, honey, and ground ginger. Set aside.

Sear the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef pieces, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
2. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the asparagus, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine and Sauce

1. Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
3. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Substitutes: Swap peas or carrots with bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for heat.
• Protein Options: Replace beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well; just add them straight to the skillet without thawing.

2. What’s the best cut of beef for stir-fry?

Sirloin or flank steak are ideal, as they cook quickly and remain tender.

3. How can I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking it.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

5. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

Hoisin sauce or soy sauce with a dash of sugar are good substitutes.

6. Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

7. How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Cook them over high heat and avoid overcooking to maintain a tender-crisp texture.

8. What pairs well with this stir-fry?

Serve it with steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

9. Can I add nuts for texture?

Yes, toasted cashews or peanuts make a great addition.

10. How do I adjust the sauce for a lighter flavor?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of sesame oil or honey.

Conclusion

Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory garlic sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and bring the taste of takeout to your table!

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