Craving a savory, quick-to-make dish that tantalizes your taste buds? Look no further! This Onion and Cumin Beef Stir-Fry combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and crisp onions to create a mouthwatering meal perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of cumin and onions infuses the beef with a rich, savory taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples and fresh produce for an accessible yet delicious dish.
Ingredients
- Beef Selection: 1 pound of flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
- Marinade Components:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Stir-Fry Essentials:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin.
- Marination Time: Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Beef: Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, ginger, and cumin seeds. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Onions: Introduce the sliced onions to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
- Combine Beef and Seasonings: Return the beef to the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
- Accompaniments: Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or alongside your favorite noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the beef against the grain ensures tenderness in each bite.
- High Heat Cooking: Maintain high heat during stir-frying to achieve a quick sear and preserve the juiciness of the beef.
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp to diversify your meal options.
Health Benefits
- Lean Protein: Flank steak provides a good source of lean protein essential for muscle maintenance.
- Aromatic Spices: Cumin and ginger not only enhance flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
This Onion and Cumin Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings excitement to your dinner table. Its quick preparation and bold taste make it a go-to recipe for any weeknight. Enjoy the harmonious blend of tender beef, aromatic spices, and sweet onions in every bite!