Craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that's both quick to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this sweet and sour beef recipe! This classic takeout favorite is surprisingly easy to recreate at home, offering a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade version – it's far tastier than anything you'll find at your local takeaway, and way more customizable to your preferences!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (additional)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions:
Marinate the Beef:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef, cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the beef and ensures a delicious, even coating.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, white vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder. If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes now.
Stir-Fry the Beef and Vegetables:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Add the onions and bell peppers to the wok and stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
Combine and Simmer:
- Return the beef to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another minute or two. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of vegetable and sesame oil.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon more brown sugar. For a tangier sauce, add a splash more vinegar.
- To make this dish even quicker, use pre-cut vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein from the beef and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This sweet and sour beef recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and homemade alternative to takeout. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and spices to create your own unique version!