Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and surprisingly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This Beef and Bitter Melon Stir-Fry is a fantastic option packed with flavor and nutritional benefits. Bitter melon, known for its slightly bitter taste and impressive health properties, pairs beautifully with tender beef in this easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal, this recipe is a winner for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. This easy recipe is a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 large bitter melon, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef: In a small bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Gently toss to coat the beef evenly. Set aside for at least 15 minutes to marinate. This simple step ensures tender and flavorful beef.
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Stir-Fry the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for the dish.
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Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Ensure the beef is cooked through but still tender. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for best results.
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Add the Bitter Melon: Add the sliced bitter melon to the wok and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until it slightly wilts but still retains a bit of crunch. Bitter melon cooks relatively quickly. Be mindful not to overcook it, as it can become mushy.
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Combine and Simmer: Stir in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. The sauce should coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional) and serve hot with steamed rice. This easy recipe is a complete meal that satisfies both taste buds and nutritional needs.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef and Bitter Melon Stir-Fry:
- Choosing Bitter Melon: Select firm, blemish-free bitter melons for the best flavor and texture.
- Reducing Bitterness: If you're sensitive to bitter melon's strong flavor, you can lightly salt the sliced melon and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before stir-frying. This helps draw out some of the bitterness. Rinsing thoroughly afterwards is essential.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan when stir-frying the beef will result in steaming instead of searing, leading to less flavorful beef. Work in batches if needed.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots to increase the nutritional value and flavor complexity of this healthy meal.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Beef and Bitter Melon Stir-Fry is a testament to how simple, healthy, and delicious homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, a truly satisfying and nutritious meal. It's one of the best recipes for a balanced and flavorful dinner.