20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.
Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch in flavor? Look no further than this 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry. With its vibrant mix of vegetables, tender flank steak, and a spicy, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s loaded with fresh basil and sesame goodness, making it a standout dish in any repertoire.
Top Reasons to Make 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in just 20 minutes!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang, curry paste, and fresh basil creates a flavor profile that is both complex and comforting.
- Customizable: Use any mix of vegetables you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and colorful veggies for a nutritious meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in one pan.
What You’ll Gather
- 2-3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
- 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons + 1/4 cup pickled ginger juice
- 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil
- 3 cups mixed chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas)
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil or Thai basil
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the flank steak and vegetables.
- Cutting board: To prepare your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir-fry and combine ingredients effectively.
20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a bowl, combine the gochujang, Thai red curry paste, tamari or soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and 2 tablespoons of pickled ginger juice. Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade and let it sit while you prepare the vegetables. This allows the beef to soak up all the incredible flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the steak is marinating, wash and chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the yellow onion. Having everything ready will make the cooking process seamless.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil (or olive oil) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated flank steak to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Add the chopped mixed vegetables and the sliced onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. The colors will be vibrant, and the smell will be heavenly!
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the stir-fry and add the remaining pickled ginger juice. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds and chili flakes to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the stir-fry from heat and fold in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, either on its own or over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of your 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry!
Better Choices & Swaps
- Flank steak: Substitute with sirloin, chicken, or tofu for different protein options.
- Tamari: Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
- Gochujang: Replace with sriracha or another chili paste if desired.
- Vegetables: Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables or whatever you have in your fridge.
Little Things that Matter
- Marinating the beef not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize it.
- Always have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before starting to cook; stir-frying is a quick process!
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less gochujang and chili flakes based on your preference.
- Fresh basil is a game-changer; it adds a delightful aromatic freshness to the dish.
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stir fry is great for meal prep and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. Just a quick warm-up, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go again!
Popular Questions
Can I make this stir fry vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily switch out the flank steak for tofu or tempeh, and use additional vegetables to create a hearty vegetarian or vegan version of this 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.
What kind of vegetables should I use?
Feel free to use any mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or zucchini. Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking!
How spicy is this recipe?
The level of spice can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with less gochujang and chili flakes if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more gradually as you taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir fry in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.
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Bring It to the Table
This 20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a beautiful array of colors and textures to your dinner table. Pair it with a side of rice or noodles, and you have a meal that is sure to please everyone. The vibrant flavors, combined with the ease of preparation and cooking, make this dish a favorite for busy cooks and families alike. So grab your ingredients, heat up the pan, and enjoy this delightful stir-fry tonight!
20 Minute Sesame Basil Beef Stir Fry.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the gochujang, Thai red curry paste, tamari or soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and 2 tablespoons of pickled ginger juice. Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade and let it sit while you prepare the vegetables.
- While the steak is marinating, wash and chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the yellow onion.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil (or olive oil) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated flank steak to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped mixed vegetables and the sliced onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the stir-fry and add the remaining pickled ginger juice. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds and chili flakes to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Remove the stir-fry from heat and fold in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, either on its own or over a bed of rice or noodles.
Notes
- Marinate the beef to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking for a smooth stir-fry process.
- Adjust spice levels with gochujang and chili flakes to your taste.
- Fresh basil adds a delightful aromatic freshness to the dish.
