Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and knack for balancing heat and freshness, has captivated food lovers around the globe. One of the standout dishes from this vibrant culinary tradition is stirfried beef, a delightful combination of tender meat and an array of aromatic ingredients. To recreate this dish authentically, gathering the right ingredients is essential.
Ingredient Requirements
Beef
Cuts: Flank steak or sirloin is preferred for its balance of tenderness and flavor.
Quantity: Approximately 300400 grams, sliced thin against the grain.
Marinade
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons for umami depth.
Shaoxing Wine: 1 tablespoon to enhance the flavor profile.
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for a velvety texture.
Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon for a hint of nuttiness.
Vegetables
Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 green, sliced for color and sweetness.
Onion: 1 medium, sliced for sweetness and crunch.
Garlic: 34 cloves, minced to add pungent aroma.
Ginger: 1inch piece, minced for warmth and zest.
Scallions: 23 stalks, cut into 2inch lengths for garnish.
Sauce
Doubanjiang (spicy fermented bean paste): 1 tablespoon for authentic heat.
Chili Oil: 12 teaspoons depending on your spice preference.
Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon for additional flavor.
Sugar: 1 teaspoon to balance the spice with a hint of sweetness.
Recipe Steps
1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef slices with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix doubanjiang, chili oil, soy sauce, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
3. StirFry: Heat a wok or a large frying pan over high heat until sizzling. Add a splash of oil and stirfry the marinated beef in batches, ensuring it sears quickly. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables: In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary. Stirfry the garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant, followed by the bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tendercrisp.
5. Combine: Return the beef to the wok, adding the prepared sauce. Toss everything together until the beef is heated through and all ingredients are well coated.
6. Garnish: Finally, sprinkle with scallions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Hunan stirfried beef with steamed jasmine rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices make this dish not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight on the table.
Dive into the bold and spicy world of Hunan cuisine with this tantalizing stirfried beef recipe, and bring the restaurant experience right into your kitchen!