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Stir Fry Asparagus Beef – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Name: Stir Fry Asparagus Beef – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 3
Ingredients: Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; ¼ cup hot chicken broth; ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons cornstarch, whisked into a slurry with 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon neutral oil, plus extra for stir-frying; 3 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine; 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 12 oz. flank steak or sirloin; 5 teaspoons light soy sauce, divided; 1 teaspoon cornstarch for marinating the beef; 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce for color; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 pound tender asparagus, woody ends trimmed

Iris Miller August 3, 2025

Servings: 3 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the delicious depths of stir fry asparagus beef, let’s explore some delightful companions that can elevate your meal. This dish traditionally pairs well with:

1. Jasmine Rice: The fragrant aroma and fluffy texture of jasmine rice soak up the savory sauce beautifully. It’s a classic choice that complements the richness of the beef.

2. Stir-Fried Noodles: Opt for some chewy udon or thin rice noodles. Toss them with a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil, and you’re in for a treat.

3. Steamed Broccoli: This green powerhouse not only brightens up your plate, but its slight crunch adds texture to your meal. Plus, it packs a nutritional punch.

4. Spring Rolls: These crispy delights, filled with fresh veggies and sometimes shrimp, make for an excellent appetizer before your stir fry.

5. Side Salad: A simple green salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the flavors of your stir fry.

The first time I made stir fry asparagus beef, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Would it taste good? Would it be quick to whip up? That night, the modest combination of tender beef and crisp asparagus answered all my questions. Today, not only am I sharing my recipe, but I’ll also delve into what makes this dish a must-try. So, fire up your wok; we’re about to embark on a flavorful journey that will brighten any dinner table!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Quick Cooking Time: Stir frying preserves the freshness of ingredients. The beef sizzles in just a few minutes, while asparagus retains its vibrant color and crunch.

2. Rich Flavor Profile: The essence of oyster sauce, coupled with sesame oil and soy sauce, creates a sublime umami profile. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience for your taste buds.

3. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K. This dish doesn’t just satisfy cravings; it also contributes to a balanced diet.

4. Customizable: If you feel adventurous, toss in different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. This adaptability lets you play around with flavors and textures.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine the tender beef, juicy and well-seasoned. Then, there’s the crisp asparagus, offering a refreshing crunch with each bite. The combination of flavors dances on your palate, with hints of garlic and ginger providing warmth. The soy sauce gives it that salty richness, while sesame oil adds a delightful nuttiness. It tastes like a well-composed piece of music, hitting all the right notes.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Stir Fry Asparagus Beef Variations?

While many stir fry recipes use basic approaches, this one stands out for a few reasons:

– Balance of Texture: The beef is cut against the grain, ensuring each piece remains tender. The asparagus is cooked just right—not soggy, but crisp enough to provide contrast.
– Flavor Depth: The addition of rice wine and multiple soy sauces introduces a sophisticated layer of flavor that many recipes overlook.
– Fresh Ingredients: Using quality produce makes a significant difference. Fresh ginger and garlic provide aromatic depth that pre-packaged options can’t match.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

1 tablespoon oyster sauce (added for a savory umami boost)
¼ cup hot chicken broth (or filtered water for lighter taste)
½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch, whisked into a slurry with 2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon neutral oil, plus extra for stir-frying
3 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
12 oz. flank steak or sirloin (340g), thinly sliced against the grain
5 teaspoons light soy sauce, divided
1 teaspoon cornstarch for marinating the beef
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce for color
¼ teaspoon sea salt
⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper
1 pound tender asparagus, woody ends trimmed

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine sliced beef with one teaspoon of light soy sauce, one teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This step is crucial. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. It allows the meat to absorb flavors and become tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix together oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and remaining light soy sauce. Stir in hot chicken broth. This mixture is your secret sauce; it packs a punch when combined with the stir-fried ingredients.

Step 3: Heat the Wok

Place your wok over high heat. Add a dash of neutral oil. Once hot, toss in the marinated beef. Sear it for about two to three minutes, flipping occasionally until browned but not fully cooked. It should still be pink in the center. Remove temporarily from the pan.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Garlic and Ginger

In the same wok, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in sliced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Watch closely; burnt garlic will ruin the flavor.

Step 5: Add Asparagus

Chop the asparagus into bite-sized pieces, then add it to the sizzling aromatics in the wok. Stir-fry for about two minutes, or until they turn bright green but remain crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now, return the beef to the wok. Pour the sauce over the mixture. Mix well, ensuring everything is coated. Let it cook for another minute until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once everything is stirred together and heated through, it’s time to plate. Serve your stir fry gleich, and enjoy the burst of flavors hitting your taste buds.

Notes

Here are some tips to elevate your stir fry game:

– Choose Quality Meat: Flank steak or sirloin works best, but pork or even chicken is perfectly acceptable.
– Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: Allow heat to circulate around the ingredients. If too crowded, you’ll steam instead of fry.
– Prep Ahead: Cut and marinate meat beforehand to save time during cooking.
– High Heat is Key: Ensure your wok is hot enough for a perfect sear on the meat.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a world of difference.

Nutrition Information

Here are the nutritional highlights per serving:

Calories: 320
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Total Fats: 18 g

How Do You Store This Stir Fry Asparagus Beef?

Leftovers? No problem! Store your stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to freshen it up.

Sides for Stir Fry Asparagus Beef

1. Steamed Rice: Simple and classic, steamed rice absorbs the flavors of the stir fry perfectly, making each bite delightful.

2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy delights filled with fresh veggies provide a refreshing start to your meal.

3. Quinoa Salad: The nuttiness of quinoa complements the dish wonderfully. Toss in some fresh herbs and lemon for a zesty twist.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

1. Vegetable Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works wonders in providing depth to your dish.

2. Cashew Sauce for a Creamy Twist: If you’re out of oyster sauce, a homemade cashew or tahini sauce can provide a rich, creamy texture.

3. Soy Sauce Substitutes: If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos can offer a similar taste profile without the allergens.

4. Alternate Veggies: Can’t find asparagus? Bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli also work well!

Conclusion

Stir fry asparagus beef is more than just a satisfying meal; it’s an exploration of flavors and textures. It’s about quick, wholesome cooking that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re serving it for yourself or impressing guests, this dish is bound to be a hit.

So, next time you’re in the kitchen, pull out your wok, and let the sizzling begin! Cooking should be enjoyable, and this dish delivers that in spades. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Stir Fry Asparagus Beef – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Author: Iris Miller Cuisine: Asian Courses: Main course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 3 Calories: 320

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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