If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and vibrant colors, you must try this Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe. It perfectly balances the fiery kick of chili paste with the savory richness of garlic and soy, while tender, juicy beef and crisp green beans create an irresistible texture. Paired with fluffy jasmine rice, this recipe is a weeknight winner that feels indulgent but comes together in a flash. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become one of your go-to dinners for both quick meals and impressing guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of fresh and pantry staples that combine to form a complex, satisfying meal. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender beef and crunchy green beans to the rich sauces and aromatic garlic and ginger that elevate every bite.
- Flank steak or sirloin (1 lb): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Divided for stir-frying vegetables and beef without smoking.
- Fresh green beans (2 cups): Trimmed for that perfect contrast of crunch and freshness.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds a sweet, vibrant pop of color and flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its unmistakable aromatic punch.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon grated): Provides a zesty warmth that complements the garlic.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings savory umami depth to the stir-fry.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Enhances the savory-sweet balance.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens the dish with light acidity.
- Chili paste or sriracha (1-2 teaspoons): The heat star that you can adjust to your spice-loving taste buds.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): Rounds out the heat with mellow sweetness if desired.
- Salt and pepper: To season perfectly.
- Cooked jasmine rice (2 cups): Fluffy and fragrant, the perfect base for soaking up sauce.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon, optional): For that extra layer of nutty aroma and flavor.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
First, slice your flank steak or sirloin thinly against the grain—this ensures each bite is tender rather than chewy. Give it a quick sprinkle of salt and pepper to boost the meat’s natural flavor before cooking. This simple seasoning acts as the foundation for all the delicious sauces coming later.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While prepping your beef, cook your jasmine rice according to the package instructions, typically one part rice to two parts water. Once it’s fluffy and tender, fluff it up with a fork and if you want to go the extra mile, toss it with a tablespoon of sesame oil. The subtle toasty flavor takes your rice from plain to unforgettable—just like a restaurant-quality meal.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and toss in your fresh green beans and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, until the veggies become tender but still have that satisfying crunch. This keeps their color bright and texture lively, then remove them from the pan and set aside to make room for the beef.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and lay the beef slices down in a single layer. Let them brown and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to get an even sear. The goal here is to get a nice caramelization on the outside while keeping the beef juicy. Once cooked, remove the beef to the side like the vegetables.
Step 5: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Now the fun part! Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until the aroma hits you—that’s when you know you’re on the right track. Next, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste or sriracha, and the optional brown sugar. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors come alive.
Step 6: Combine Beef, Vegetables, and Sauce
Return the cooked beef, green beans, and bell pepper back into the skillet with your sauce. Toss everything well so each piece is beautifully coated, and allow it to heat through for about 2 minutes. This final mixing step marries all the layers of flavor perfectly and ensures every bite delivers that signature punch you’re craving.
Step 7: Serve Your Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Spoon the steaming beef stir-fry over the bed of fluffy jasmine rice. You can’t go wrong with this colorful, fragrant presentation that invites everyone at the table to dig in happily. It’s hearty, healthy, and sensational every single time.
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra nuttiness. Freshly chopped green onions or cilantro add an herbal brightness that cuts through the rich, spicy sauce perfectly—plus, they make your plating look gorgeous.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry is satisfying on its own, but if you want to build out a feast, consider serving with light Asian-inspired sides like a cucumber salad with rice vinegar or a simple miso soup. These options bring coolness or savory depth without overpowering the star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in lettuce cups or over steamed bao buns for a handheld bite that’s bursting with flavor. Or use a carving ring to neatly shape the rice on your plate, then pile the beef and veggies on top like a flavorful tower—both are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store beef, vegetables, and rice together in an airtight container to maintain flavor and moisture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To preserve texture, it’s best to freeze the stir-fry separately from the rice when possible, then combine after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly and avoid drying out the beef.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While flank steak and sirloin are recommended for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can also use skirt steak or even thinly sliced ribeye. Just be sure to slice against the grain for the best texture.
What can I substitute for chili paste?
If you don’t have chili paste or sriracha on hand, you can use hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or even fresh chopped chili peppers to add heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and double-check your oyster and hoisin sauces, as some brands contain gluten. Many Asian markets offer gluten-free options.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms for a delicious plant-based version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of rice works best with this stir-fry?
Jasmine rice is ideal thanks to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but you can use any white rice variety you prefer. Brown rice works too if you want a healthier twist, just cook it according to package instructions.
Final Thoughts
Making this Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe is like giving your dinner routine a passionate boost of flavor and vibrancy. Quick to prepare yet deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something nourishing but exciting. I promise this dish will become a beloved staple, bringing warmth, spice, and pure joy to your table again and again.
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Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A flavorful and spicy garlic beef stir-fry featuring tender flank steak, crisp green beans, and vibrant red bell peppers, all tossed in a savory, tangy sauce of soy, oyster, and hoisin with a hint of chili heat. Served over fragrant jasmine rice, this quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Accompaniments
- 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 and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions (usually one part rice to two parts water). Once cooked, fluff with a fork and optionally toss with sesame oil for added aroma and taste.
- Stir-Fry 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-frying for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove the vegetables and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Beef: Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Spread the beef slices in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Create the Sauce: Still using the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste or sriracha, and brown sugar if using. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked beef and vegetables to the skillet, tossing everything to evenly coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy garlic beef stir-fry over the cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro if desired to add freshness and texture.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the chili paste or sriracha according to your heat preference.
- Using flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced ensures quick cooking and tender texture.
- Fresh ginger is preferred for brighter flavor, but ground ginger works as a substitute.
- Optional brown sugar balances out the spiciness and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Vegetables can be varied based on preference; snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms can be great additions.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking beef to get a good sear.
- Cook rice ahead of time to speed up the meal preparation process.
- Sesame oil enhances the dish’s aroma, added either during cooking or tossed with rice.
