Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chinese Tomato Beef recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with savory beef, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier or more rewarding than this! This recipe is easily adaptable to your spice preferences, making it a versatile addition to your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Gently toss to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the beef and allows the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the beef is tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with the sliced green onions and serve hot over cooked rice. This easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures the beef cooks quickly and evenly. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you.
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef will be tough. Aim for a tender, slightly pink center.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less sugar, rice vinegar, or red pepper flakes depending on your preference.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots along with the onions.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Beef: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet and Sour Tomato Beef: Add a tablespoon or two of pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Garlic Lover's Version: Add more garlic – you can never have too much garlic!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Chinese Tomato Beef recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy meals can be achieved with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. It's a wonderful example of best recipes for those looking for quick, flavorful, and satisfying food recipes. Enjoy!