Shaking Beef
When it comes to vibrant, flavorful dishes that can easily impress a crowd, Shaking Beef is a standout. This Vietnamese-inspired dish combines tender beef sirloin with aromatic ingredients, creating a tantalizing meal that’s both hearty and refreshing. With its juicy cubes of beef mixed with crunchy vegetables and a tangy sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has gained popularity worldwide. Perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal, let’s dive into the details of creating this culinary masterpiece.
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of Shaking Beef lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized cubes, cooks quickly and stays tender thanks to the marination process. The combination of fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sweet soy sauce gives the beef depth and umami, while the addition of rice vinegar adds a refreshing acidity. The watercress and tomatoes not only provide a crunchy contrast but also enhance the dish’s nutritional profile. The end result is a colorful, satisfying dish that pleases both the palate and the eye.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs. (750g) beef sirloin, cut into 1″ (2.5cm) cubes
- 1 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis or Maggie Seasoning)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 bunches watercress, long stems trimmed
- 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, sliced into halves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Must-Have Equipment
- Large skillet or wok: Essential for achieving that beautiful sear on the beef.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping the vegetables and meat.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the beef and vegetables cleanly.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of sauces and seasonings.
- Spatula: For tossing and shaking the beef as it cooks.
The Method for Shaking Beef
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef cubes with fish sauce, oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Mix well to ensure each piece of beef is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is marinating, slice the red onion and tomatoes. Trim the watercress stems and set aside. This will ensure everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat the large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cooking oil and allow it to get hot. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear without moving it for about 2 minutes to develop a nice crust. Then, use the spatula to shake and toss the beef, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Step 6: Final Touches
Sprinkle the black pepper over the mixture, add the rice vinegar, and give everything a final toss. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step 7: Serve
Plate the beef mixture and garnish with fresh watercress and sliced tomatoes. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Holiday-Friendly Variations
- For a festive twist, add roasted bell peppers and pineapple for a sweet and savory combination.
- Substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter version that still packs a punch.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
- Serve with jasmine rice or rice noodles to make it a more filling holiday meal.
Problems & Prevention
Cooking Shaking Beef is generally straightforward, but here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
- Overcooked Beef: Keep an eye on the cooking time and don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Too Salty: Adjust the amount of fish and oyster sauce according to your taste preference, especially if you’re sensitive to salt.
- Lack of Flavor: Ensure the beef is properly marinated for the best flavor infusion. Don’t rush this step!
- Soggy Vegetables: Add the tomatoes and watercress last to maintain their crispness and vibrant colors.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of Shaking Beef, here are some tips to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the beef.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different cut of beef for Shaking Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for its tenderness, cuts like ribeye or flank steak can also work well. Just ensure to slice against the grain for tenderness.
Is there a vegetarian version of Shaking Beef?
Yes! You can substitute the beef with firm tofu or seitan, and follow the same marination and cooking process for a delicious plant-based version.
Can I make Shaking Beef ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can marinate the beef a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook it right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Shaking Beef?
Shaking Beef pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, fried rice, or even rice noodles. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables can also complement the dish nicely.
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The Last Word
Shaking Beef is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and delicious textures. This dish beautifully showcases the harmony of ingredients and offers a delightful meal that can be adjusted to suit any palate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to shake things up in the kitchen!
Shaking Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef cubes with fish sauce, oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Mix well to ensure each piece of beef is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- While the beef is marinating, slice the red onion and tomatoes. Trim the watercress stems and set aside. This will ensure everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
- Heat the large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cooking oil and allow it to get hot. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear without moving it for about 2 minutes to develop a nice crust. Then, use the spatula to shake and toss the beef, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the black pepper over the mixture, add the rice vinegar, and give everything a final toss. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Plate the beef mixture and garnish with fresh watercress and sliced tomatoes. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a festive twist, add roasted bell peppers and pineapple for a sweet and savory combination.
- Substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter version that still packs a punch.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
