Sizzling Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry
ChineseLunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This 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 step
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  1. Slice 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for 1 minute. Return beef to the wok along with any accumulated juices.

  7. 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.

  8. 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

4.9 (25)

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.

medium
32 min
4 servings

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 advice
The velveting technique - coating beef in cornstarch before cooking - is crucial for tender results.
Do not skip the marinating step.
For maximum wok hei flavor, ensure your wok is screaming hot before adding ingredients and work quickly.
If your stove does not get very hot, cook beef in smaller batches to maintain high heat.
For added heat, include 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger.
The key to great stir-fry is having everything prepped before you start cooking - once you begin, there is no time to chop or measure.
Use a metal spatula or wok spatula for best tossing action.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
You can substitute the beef with boneless chicken thigh for a lighter option.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

Store 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.

Reheating

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.