As the tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile, knowing a culinary adventure awaits. This Peking-style Beef recipe is my go-to for whipping up a quick dinner that feels like a cozy night out at a favorite takeout spot. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for anyone who craves a delicious meal without the hassle of complicated prep. With its sweet-savory sauce and glossy finish, this dish not only delights the taste buds but also offers a healthier alternative to greasy fast food. Top it all off with fresh cucumber ribbons for that satisfying crunch, and you’ll see why this dish has become a beloved staple in my household. Are you ready to dive into the world of quick and savory Asian-inspired dinners?
Why Is Peking-style Beef So Irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll have a fantastic dinner on the table in 20 minutes.
Healthy Alternative: Enjoy all the flavors of your favorite takeout while keeping it healthier, thanks to fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce.
Versatile Options: Whether you use minced beef or switch it up with chicken, pork, turkey, or tofu, this recipe adapts to your dietary needs.
Incredible Flavor: The blend of hoisin, soy sauce, and ginger creates a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, everyone will love the glossy, sweet-savory beef served over rice with crunchy cucumbers.
If you’re also interested in mixing it up a bit, why not explore whipping up some Ground Beef Stroganoff or serving alongside crispy sides like Beef Burritos Customizable? Your options are endless!
Peking-style Beef Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds a sweet and depthful flavor; can substitute with homemade hoisin if unavailable.
• Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; all-purpose or low-sodium soy works well.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Provides rich color and deeper flavor; use less if not available.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Balances sweetness and acidity; apple cider vinegar makes a fine substitute.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetness enhancer; swap in white sugar if needed.
• Chinese Five-Spice – Optional for added complexity; can be omitted if desired.
For the Beef
• Regular Minced Beef – Key protein source; not using extra-lean is recommended for better texture and flavor.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and zest; freshly grated yields optimal results.
For Thickening
• Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Thicken the sauce; must be mixed with water prior to use.
For Serving
• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Ideal side to soak up the savory sauce; other rice or noodles can also work.
• Cucumbers – Fresh and crunchy side; cut into ribbons to enhance texture. Salting beforehand improves crispness.
• Spring Onions (Scallions) – Garnish with added bite; can substitute with green onions.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for added crunch and decoration.
• Sesame Oil – Drizzle for a flavor boost; can be skipped if not available.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a delightful home-cooked experience with Peking-style Beef!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peking-style Beef
Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauces, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, and Chinese five-spice, if using. Set this delightful sauce aside, as it will soon envelop your Peking-style beef in sweetness and depth. Aim for a smooth consistency before moving on to the next steps.
Step 2: Cook Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of light olive oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the regular minced beef, spreading it out evenly. Let it brown undisturbed for 5-6 minutes, allowing the juices to caramelize beautifully, which will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once the beef is nicely browned, reduce the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant. The mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to move to the next step in crafting your Peking-style beef.
Step 4: Add Sauce
Pour the previously prepared sauce over the browned beef, stirring thoroughly to coat the meat evenly in that glossy mixture. Let it simmer on medium heat for 1-2 minutes. The beef will soak up the delicious flavors, becoming tender and flavorful as it cooks down, creating that signature Peking-style taste.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornflour with a couple of tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the simmering beef sauce. Continue to cook for another 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it clings lovingly to the beef, creating a vibrant, sticky coating.
Step 6: Prepare Cucumbers
While the Peking-style beef finishes cooking, take your cucumbers and slice them into long ribbons using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline. Toss the cucumber ribbons with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture and enhance their crispness, readying them for serving.
Step 7: Serve
To plate your Peking-style beef, place a generous scoop over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. Top it with the prepared cucumber ribbons and sprinkle with sliced spring onions and toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. The contrasting textures and flavors will make your meal truly irresistible!
What to Serve with Peking-style Beef?
Imagine a vibrant dinner table, bursting with flavors and colors that perfectly complement the sticky, sweet-savory allure of Peking-style Beef.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy foundation absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite a symphony of flavors. A classic choice that never disappoints.
- Crunchy Cucumber Salad: Tossed with a sprinkle of salt and vinegar, this refreshing side adds a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the beef.
- Garlic Broccoli: This steamed veggie side brings an earthy note and adds a touch of green to your plate, creating a colorful and healthful contrast.
- Quick Stir-fried Greens: Bright and slightly bitter greens like bok choy or spinach, sautéed in garlic, offer a healthy, vibrant pairing that enhances the meal’s nutritional value.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy, stuffed with vegetables, and served with a tangy dipping sauce, these add a fun finger-food element to your dinner that everyone loves.
- Chilled Soba Noodles: Lightly dressed in sesame oil and soy sauce, these noodles provide a nutty flavor and a great texture that complements the beef beautifully.
- Crispy Wontons: Filled with savory ingredients and fried to a golden perfection, they add crunch and indulgence to your meal, making it feel extra special.
- Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: A soothing drink that cuts through the richness of your dinner while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
Let these delightful sides take your Peking-style Beef dinner to new heights, inviting family and friends to indulge in the delightful experience.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Peking-style Beef ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can make the sauce (hoisin, soy sauces, vinegar, and brown sugar) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the cucumbers and salt them up to 3 days ahead, just remember to pat them dry before serving to maintain their crunch. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply brown the minced beef, add the aromatics, and mix in your prepared sauce. You’ll experience that delicious home-cooked flavor with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Peking-style Beef
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Beef Choice: Use regular minced beef for better caramelization; extra-lean cuts can lead to a drier texture and less flavor.
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Prep Ahead: Prepare the cucumber ribbons and sauce ingredients before starting to cook, which will save time and streamline the process.
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Don’t Rush Browning: Allow the beef to brown undisturbed to achieve that rich flavor and the signature glossy look of the Peking-style beef.
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Thickening Secret: Always mix cornflour with water before adding it to the sauce; this prevents clumps and results in a silky-smooth consistency.
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Customize Heat: For some kick, add chili crisp or sriracha directly to the beef, catering to your taste preferences without overwhelming the dish.
Peking-style Beef Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Chicken Alternative: Swap minced beef for minced chicken for a leaner option while maintaining flavor.
- Tofu Twist: Use grated firm tofu to create a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing the dish’s essence.
- Pork Substitute: For a rich taste, try minced pork; its natural fat complements the savory sauces beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Add colorful vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and a vibrant crunch.
- Ultimate Spice: For some heat, mix in red pepper flakes or serve with a drizzle of sriracha on top. The added spice brings the sweetness into a delightful balance.
- Noodle Serve: Instead of rice, serve your Peking-style beef over cooked ramen or rice noodles for a fun twist on texture and flavor.
- Seasoned Greens: Consider a side of sautéed bok choy or steamed edamame for added health benefits and a visually appealing plate.
- Homemade Hoisin Option: If store-bought hoisin is not available, make your own by mixing soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, and a hint of vinegar for a tasty alternative.
Whether you want to dive deeper into beef dishes with a hearty Ground Beef Stroganoff or enjoy a comforting meal of Ground Beef Rice, the possibilities are truly delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Peking-style Beef
Fridge: Store leftover Peking-style beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Gently reheat the beef in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and prevent drying out.
Freezer: Peking-style beef is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, pair with fresh cucumber ribbons and steamed rice to elevate the dish and bring back its original crunch!
Peking-style Beef Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Peking-style beef?
For the best flavor, I recommend using regular minced beef. Avoid extra-lean beef as it tends to dry out during cooking and lacks the rich flavor that makes this dish shine. The fat content in regular minced beef will help achieve that delightful caramelization.
How should leftovers be stored?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Peking-style beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the beef to cool completely before sealing the container to preserve its freshness. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can Peking-style beef be frozen?
Peking-style beef is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly in a skillet to restore its delicious flavors.
What if my Peking-style beef sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
Very understandable! If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, make sure you mix the cornflour (cornstarch) with water until smooth before adding it to the simmering sauce—this step is crucial to avoid clumps. You can also let it simmer a bit longer, stirring consistently. If it still seems thin, add more cornflour mixed with water, but do it gradually to avoid over-thickening.
Can I use other proteins in the recipe?
Yes! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using minced chicken, pork, turkey, or even grated firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Each variation brings its unique twist while capturing the same delightful flavors. If you use a lighter protein, watch the cooking time, as they will require less time to cook through.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! This Peking-style beef can be tailored to dietary needs. If you have allergies to gluten, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and be mindful of the hoisin sauce ingredients. For anyone cooking for pets, keep in mind that the sauce contains ingredients like soy and garlic, which are not suitable for your furry friends. Always check labels for allergen information.
Quick & Tasty Peking-style Beef for Delicious Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauces, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, and Chinese five-spice. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat, then add minced beef. Let it brown undisturbed for 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour sauce over browned beef, stirring to coat. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Mix cornflour with water until smooth, then stir into the beef sauce. Cook for another 30-60 seconds until thickened.
- Slice cucumbers into ribbons, toss with salt, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Serve beef over jasmine rice, topped with cucumber ribbons, spring onions, and sesame seeds.
