If you’re craving a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and just the right amount of heat, then the Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender, juicy slices of beef with crisp green beans and bright red bell pepper, all tossed in a savory, garlicky sauce that has a perfect kick of spice. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it’s an utterly satisfying meal that feels special yet comes together quickly for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Once you try this one, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the fresh green beans that add a delightful crunch, to the rich umami-packed sauces that coat every bite, these simple staples come together to create a spectacular dish.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain: Choosing tender cuts and slicing against the grain ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Essential for stir-frying and achieving that perfect sear without sticking.
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed: Offers a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant green color.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips: Adds a sweet crunch and brightens up the dish visually.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the flavor profile, delivering robust, aromatic heat.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger): Introduces a subtle zing that complements the garlic perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings savory depth and saltiness fundamental to stir-fry dishes.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a luxurious, slightly sweet umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Provides a touch of sweetness and complexity in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with a pleasant tang.
- 1-2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha: The adjustable element that lets you dial up the heat to your liking.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional): Balances out the spicy and tangy elements with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or white rice of your choice): Acts as the perfect bed to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a rich, nutty aroma for an elevated finish.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Rice
Start by slicing your flank steak or sirloin thinly against the grain, which helps keep the beef tender and easy to chew. Season it lightly with salt and pepper for a base layer of flavor. Meanwhile, cook your jasmine rice according to the package instructions, usually using a ratio of one part rice to two parts water. Once it’s fluffy and tender, feel free to toss it with a tablespoon of sesame oil if you want to add an extra pop of richness and fragrance to your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat half of your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the fresh green beans and red bell pepper strips, stir-frying them for about four to five minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender yet still retain a satisfying crispness and vibrant color. Once they reach this perfect texture, set them aside so you can use the same skillet to maximize flavor in the next steps.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In the same hot skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil then spread the beef slices out in a single layer. Let them brown undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Your goal is a nice sear on the beef, cooked through but still juicy. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Using the flavorful drippings left in the skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step will release the aromatic oils that are key for this stir-fry. Next, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and your choice of chili paste or sriracha. If you love a hint of sweetness to balance heat, stir in the optional brown sugar. Let the mixture cook for one to two minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce that perfectly coats all ingredients.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables back to the skillet. Toss everything gently to ensure each piece is coated with that irresistible spicy garlic sauce. Let it cook together for an additional two minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and everything is heated through evenly. Now your Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe is ready to enjoy!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Spoon generous portions of the beef and vegetable stir-fry over warm jasmine rice. The sauce will soak into the rice, completing every bite with that wonderful spicy, garlicky goodness that’s the hallmark of this recipe.
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, some freshly chopped green onions, or bright cilantro leaves on top. These garnishes add a fresh contrast and a pop of color that make the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry works beautifully as a standalone meal because of its balanced protein, veggies, and rice. However, if you want to expand your spread, light sides like steamed dumplings or a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing can complement the spicy richness without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in individual bowls topped with sliced avocado or a fried egg. You can also pile it onto lettuce leaves for a low-carb, handheld version that’s perfect for casual meals or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well. Separate the rice from the beef and vegetables before freezing for the best texture. Pack each component into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. Aim to use within two months for optimal flavor and quality.
Reheating
To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm the beef and veggies in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Reheat the rice separately, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it fluffy. Combine and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Flank steak and sirloin are preferred for their tenderness and quick cooking time, but flank, skirt, or even ribeye can work. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust the heat?
The level of spice depends on how much chili paste or sriracha you add. Start with 1 teaspoon if you prefer mild heat and increase up to 2 teaspoons or more for a bolder kick. You can always serve extra chili sauce on the side.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the beef with firm tofu or tempeh, and swap oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or more soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients stay the same for a delicious plant-based stir-fry.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Frozen green beans can be used in a pinch, but fresh green beans offer the best crunch and appearance. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before stir-frying to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What kind of rice works best with this stir-fry?
Jasmine rice is the classic choice due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but white or brown rice also works. Just adjust cooking times as needed if you switch to brown rice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about the Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s a harmony of flavors and textures that comes together quickly using simple ingredients, making weeknight dinners feel special without any fuss. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and add your own personal touch to it—here’s to many delicious meals ahead!
Print
Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice is a quick, flavorful weeknight meal combining tender flank steak with crisp green beans and vibrant red bell pepper, all coated in a savory, slightly spicy garlic ginger sauce. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it’s a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1–2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, to balance the heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Carbohydrate
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or white rice of your choice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Slice the flank steak or sirloin thinly against the grain. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the jasmine rice according to the package instructions, typically using a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork. For added aroma and richness, toss the warm rice with a tablespoon of sesame oil if desired.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and red bell pepper. Stir-fry continuously for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet retain a crisp texture. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Lay the sliced beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside with the vegetables.
- Prepare the Sauce: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant to release their flavors. Add in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste or sriracha for heat, and brown sugar if you want to balance the spiciness. Stir continuously and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and is warmed through.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked beef and vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to coat with the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure everything is heated evenly.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy garlic beef stir-fry over the prepared jasmine rice. Optionally garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and a fresh appearance.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Adjust the amount of chili paste or sriracha according to your preferred spice tolerance.
- You can substitute green beans with snap peas or broccoli florets for variety.
- Brown sugar is optional but helps to balance the heat and acidity in the sauce.
- Using a wok can enhance the stir-frying technique, but a large skillet works well too.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
