
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsThis authentic Cantonese stir-fry showcases the essential technique of wok hei - that coveted breath of the wok that defines great Chinese cooking. Tender beef strips are velveted in a light cornstarch coating before being seared over high heat, creating a caramelized exterior while maintaining juicy tenderness. Combined with umami-rich mushrooms, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic garlic and ginger, everything is tossed in a glossy sauce made with soy sauce and oyster sauce. The key to success lies in proper mise en place - having all ingredients prepped before you start cooking - and maintaining very high heat throughout. This allows for quick cooking that preserves the vegetables crispness and creates that signature smoky flavor. Serve immediately over steamed white rice for a satisfying meal that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Instructions
step by stepSlice beef steak against the grain into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. Place in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch (from flour substitute). Let marinate for 15 minutes.
While beef marinates, prepare all vegetables: slice mushrooms, cut bell peppers into 1-inch pieces, mince garlic cloves, and grate fresh ginger. Have all sauce ingredients measured and ready.
In a small bowl, combine remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of black pepper to make the stir-fry sauce. Set aside.
Heat wok over highest heat until smoking. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Add half the beef in a single layer and sear without moving for 1 minute. Flip and cook another 30 seconds. Remove to a plate. Repeat with remaining beef.
Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for 15 seconds until fragrant. Add mushrooms and stir-fry for 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add bell peppers and stir-fry for 1 minute. Return beef to the wok along with any accumulated juices.
Pour the sauce mixture over everything and toss vigorously for 30-45 seconds until the sauce thickens and coats all ingredients with a glossy sheen.
Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot over steamed white rice.
Sizzling Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A classic Cantonese stir-fry featuring tender strips of beef, earthy mushrooms, and crisp bell peppers in a savory garlic-ginger sauce. This restaurant-quality dish comes together quickly in one wok.
Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
- 600 grams Beef Steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 2 cups Mushrooms, sliced
- 2 pieces Bell Peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
Aromatics
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Ginger, freshly grated
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce
- 1 teaspoons Sesame Oil
Cooking Oil
- 4 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground
Chef Tips
expert adviceVariations & Substitutions
make it your ownStorage & Reheating
keeping it freshStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may separate slightly upon storage, which is normal. Keep separate from rice for best texture preservation.
Reheat in a hot wok or large skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through. Add a tablespoon of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, reheat only the amount you will eat, as multiple reheating cycles will toughen the beef.