What To Know
- Return the seared beef to the wok and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is cooked through.
- The beef should be cooked just until browned on the outside and still slightly pink on the inside.
- Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health and well-being.
Embark on a culinary expedition to the heart of Sichuan Province, renowned for its bold and aromatic cuisine. Our authentic Szechuan beef recipe will tantalize your taste buds with an explosion of flavors, leaving you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Chinese black vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, sugar, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
4. Sear the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot oil and sear for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
5. Sauté the Scallions: Add the scallions to the wok and sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
6. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and bring to a boil.
7. Return the Beef: Return the seared beef to the wok and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is cooked through.
8. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Szechuan beef to a serving dish and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Culinary Tips:
- Use High-Quality Beef: Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut that works well for this recipe. However, you can also use skirt steak or top sirloin.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: The beef should be cooked just until browned on the outside and still slightly pink on the inside. Overcooking will result in tough meat.
- Adjust the Heat: The level of heat in this recipe can be adjusted to your preference. If you like it extra spicy, add more chili flakes or Sichuan peppercorns.
- Serve with Rice or Noodles: Szechuan beef is traditionally served over steamed rice or noodles, which help soak up the delicious sauce.
Health Benefits of Szechuan Beef:
- Rich in Protein: Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Contains Vitamins and Minerals: Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health and well-being.
- May Aid Digestion: Sichuan peppercorns have been known to stimulate digestion and reduce bloating.
Variations:
- Spicy Szechuan Beef: Add extra chili flakes or chopped chili peppers to the sauce for a spicier version.
- Vegetarian Szechuan Beef: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative.
- Szechuan Beef with Vegetables: Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the wok along with the beef.
Wrapping Up: A Culinary Masterpiece
Our authentic Szechuan beef recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Sichuan Province. With its bold flavors, tender beef, and aromatic sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and embark on a culinary adventure that will ignite your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use flank steak, skirt steak, or top sirloin. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cut.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the beef overnight and cook it the next day. However, the beef should not be cooked in the sauce until ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with Szechuan beef?
A: Szechuan beef is traditionally served over steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a side of soup.
