A dish that’s not only delicious but super easy to whip up! Today, we’re talking about the fabulous Stir-fried Beef with Celery! Imagine tender strips of beef dancing in a savory sauce with crunchy celery and a punch of garlic! YUM! It’s a wonderful combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing your friends at a get-together. Let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Stir-fried Beef with Celery Recipe
This dish is an absolute showstopper! First off, it’s quick and simple, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want to savor something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to get your veggies in, thanks to the fresh celery! And let’s not forget about the flavors, each bite is bursting with umami goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance! Just serve it over a steaming bed of rice, and you have a meal that’s absolutely fantastic.
How to make Stir-fried Beef with Celery
Let’s break down this delightful recipe step by step so you can easily follow along. You’ll see how quickly this beautiful dish comes together!
Ingredients for Stir-fried Beef with Celery:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large bunch celery, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 small red chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch.
Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned and almost cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Stir-fry the celery: Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced celery and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp-tender.
Combine and finish: Return the beef to the wok. Add the prepared sauce and stir-fry everything together until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and celery evenly. Stir in the sesame oil (if using) at the very end.
Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice.
What to Serve With Stir-fried Beef with Celery
Oh, the possibilities! This scrumptious dish pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed jasmine rice, but you can also serve it with noodles for a twist! Feeling adventurous? Try adding a side of crispy spring rolls or some avocado salad for a refreshing kick. You could even add a drizzle of chili oil on top for a little extra zing!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips of Stir-fried Beef with Celery
Good news, my friends! You can absolutely make this dish ahead of time! Just cook it, and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet until warmed through. Just like magic!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Stir-fried Beef with Celery
- Cut against the grain: Always slice your beef against the grain for maximum tenderness!
- High heat is key: Don’t be afraid of that high heat! It’s what gives stir-fried dishes their glorious texture and flavor.
- Prep everything ahead: Having everything ready to toss in will make your cooking process a breeze!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you want to mix things up a bit, you can totally substitute the beef for chicken or tofu! They’ll soak up the flavors just as nicely. Feeling spicy? Add some sriracha to your sauce for a fiery twist! Using different veggies like bell peppers or snap peas can also add a color pop and textural fun!
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating!What’s a good alternative to Shaoxing wine?
You can use dry sherry or even a splash of white wine in a pinch!How spicy is this dish?
You can adjust the heat by using fewer red chilies or omitting them altogether for a mild version!
I’m so excited for you to try this Stir-fried Beef with Celery! It’s such a burst of flavor and a wonderful way to bring a taste of home into your kitchen! Enjoy every bite! Happy cooking, my foodie friends!