Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chinese Tomato and Beef recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly delicious. It's a simple dish, ideal for weeknight cooking, yet bursting with the vibrant taste of sweet tomatoes and tender beef. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier or more rewarding than this! Let's get started on this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 scallion, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef, cornstarch, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and Shaoxing rice wine (if using). Gently toss to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the beef and ensures it browns beautifully.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; you want to bring out their aroma, not their bitterness.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the diced tomatoes to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked beef to the wok. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Thinly sliced beef cooks faster: Using thinly sliced beef ensures even cooking and prevents it from becoming tough. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure you don't overcrowd the pan when stir-frying the beef, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of sugar is adjustable depending on your preference. You can add more or less to suit your taste.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers Version: Increase the amount of garlic to your liking.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace beef with firm tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
This Chinese Tomato and Beef recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Its quick preparation time and delicious taste make it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish!