Description
Szechuan Beef is a bold and spicy stir-fry featuring thinly sliced beef, Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, and dried red chilies in a savory, umami-rich sauce. With its signature numbing heat and deep flavors, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick, flavor-packed dinner!
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, lightly toasted and crushed
- 6 dried red chilies, chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
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Prep the Beef
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Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
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Toss with cornstarch and salt to help achieve a crispy texture.
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Stir-Fry the Beef
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Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
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Stir-fry the beef in small batches for 2-3 minutes until browned and crispy.
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Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Make the Sauce
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In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon oil.
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Sauté garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and dried chilies for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
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Combine Everything
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Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
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Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
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Serve and Garnish
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Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with green onions.
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Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
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Notes
- Freeze the beef for 20 minutes before slicing—it makes it easier to cut thin, even slices.
- Toast the Szechuan peppercorns before grinding to enhance their flavor.
- Stir-fry in small batches to prevent steaming and ensure a crispy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg