A quick and savory stir fry featuring tender beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a rich soy-based sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy white rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick-cooking, perfect for weeknights.
Customizable with different vegetables or protein.
Packed with umami and just the right touch of sweetness.

ingredients

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

Beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
Bell peppers (red, green, yellow), julienned
Onion, sliced
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
Cornstarch
Brown sugar or honey
Rice vinegar
Oil (vegetable or sesame)
Cooked white rice for serving

directions

Toss beef slices in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sugar. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear beef until browned, then remove from pan.
Add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Stir fry until just tender.
Return beef to the pan and add sauces. Stir until coated and heated through.
Serve immediately over cooked rice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
Use chili sauce for a spicy version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best?

Flank or sirloin steak are both tender and cook quickly.

Do I need a wok to make stir fry?

No. A large non-stick skillet works well for home cooking.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, though they may release more water—stir fry quickly to avoid sogginess.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Slice thinly against the grain and marinate before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead?

You can prep ingredients in advance, but it’s best cooked and served fresh.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default—add chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but texture of vegetables may change. Freeze in portions and reheat thoroughly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Make a batch and divide into containers with rice for quick lunches.

What rice is best to serve with stir fry?

Jasmine or long-grain white rice works best. Brown rice or noodles are also good options.

Conclusion

This beef stir fry offers bold flavor and quick cooking, ideal for busy nights. With customizable ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a dependable dinner you’ll return to often.