Beef strips with vegetables and sweet and sour sauce

Beef strips with vegetables and sweet and sour sauce

Are you looking for a quick and delicious recipe that perfectly combines juicy meat with crunchy vegetables and a flavorful sauce? Then preparing beef strips with vegetables and sweet and sour sauce is the ideal choice! This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g beef tenderloin, cut into strips
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet and sour sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (sunflower or peanut oil for a more intense flavor)
- 750 g mixed frozen vegetables, thawed (zucchini, cauliflower, carrots, corn, leeks, Brussels sprouts, green asparagus)
- 25 g sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparing the sweet and sour sauce

1. Marinating the meat: Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, mix ketchup, honey, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and brown sugar. This mixture will give the meat not only a delicious flavor but also a pleasant texture.
2. Add the meat: Add the beef strips to the bowl with the marinade and mix well so that each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preparing the vegetables

3. Boiling the vegetables: While the meat is marinating, take care of the vegetables. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Let them boil for 5-10 minutes until they start to soften but remain crunchy. This step is important to maintain the texture of the vegetables and to avoid them becoming too soft.
4. Drain the vegetables: After boiling, drain the vegetables and set them aside.

Preparing the beef strips

5. Heating the oil: Heat the oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium heat. Sunflower oil is a good choice, but if you want a more intense flavor, you can opt for peanut oil.
6. Cooking the meat: Add the beef strips along with the marinade to the wok. Sauté the meat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it is fully cooked and has taken on a nice color. It is essential not to overcrowd the pan to allow the meat to brown properly.
7. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, add the boiled vegetables and mix everything together. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are well integrated into the mixture and still crunchy.

Finalizing the dish

8. Garnishing: Before removing the dish from heat, sprinkle sesame seeds on top, adding a crunchy texture and a hint of flavor.
9. Serving: Serve the beef strips with vegetables alongside boiled or fried rice. Rice is the perfect choice as it absorbs the delicious sauce and complements the dish perfectly.

Suggestions and variations

- Vegetable variations: You can experiment with various fresh or frozen vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or peas. Choose your favorite vegetables to customize the recipe!
- Spiciness: If you like spicy food, add chili flakes to the sweet and sour sauce or sprinkle a bit of Sriracha sauce during cooking.
- Side dishes: Along with this dish, you can also serve a fresh salad with green vegetables, which will add a crunchy contrast and a note of freshness.

Nutritional benefits

This beef strip recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. A serving of this dish can contain approximately 500 calories, making it a nourishing option for a delicious dinner.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
- Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted with chicken, which will cook faster.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Yes, make sure to use gluten-free labeled sauces (for example, soy sauce) to make this recipe safe for those with gluten intolerance.

3. How can I store leftovers?
- You can store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a little oil to make it juicy again.

Conclusion

Beef strips with vegetables and sweet and sour sauce is a recipe that brings flavor and color to your plate. With every bite, you will feel how the flavors intertwine and transport you to an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare this dish for family or friends, it will surely impress with its delicious taste and vibrant appearance. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron and let’s cook together!