Craving a flavorful, comforting meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Tomato Beef Chinese recipe is a perfect example of delicious homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, and easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of this easy recipe!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest of cooks.
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Fresh green onions, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. This helps tenderize the beef and creates a delicious sauce. Set aside for at least 10 minutes to marinate.
Building the Flavor:
- Heat the cooking oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
The Magic Happens:
- Add the marinated beef to the wok and stir-fry until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Bringing it all Together:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Tomato Beef Chinese over cooked rice. Garnish with fresh green onions, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- For extra tender beef, use a meat mallet to pound the slices slightly before marinating.
- Don't overcook the beef; it should be tender but not tough.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them entirely.
- This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd.
Delicious Variations: Spice it Up or Keep it Mild
- Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon or two of your favorite chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with firm tofu, cut into similar sized pieces. Ensure to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess water.
- Vegetable Boost: Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, along with the onions and garlic.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Tomato Beef Chinese recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. Enjoy!