Pineapple stir-fry

Beef Stir-Fry with Pineapple: An Explosion of Sweet and Savory Flavors

This beef stir-fry recipe with pineapple is perfect for those who appreciate bold combinations of meat with sweet notes. The dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

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

Ingredients
For the stir-fry:
- 500 g beef, cut into thin strips (about 2 cm wide and 5 cm long)
- 100 g fresh or canned pineapple (without added sugar), cut into pieces
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 5 cm fresh ginger, grated
- 4-5 tablespoons soy sauce (used instead of salt)
- 100 ml rice wine (or dry white wine)
- 3 tablespoons corn oil (or other neutral oil, such as sunflower or peanut)

For the marinade:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 egg white, beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons oil

Preparing the Marinade
1. Marinating the meat: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, egg white, soy sauce, and oil. Add the beef strips and mix well, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This will help tenderize the meat and absorb the flavors.

Cooking the Dish
2. Heating the wok: Start by heating a wok or large pan over high heat. Add the corn oil and wait until it becomes hot (about 1-2 minutes).

3. Sautéing the onion and ginger: Add the green onion and grated ginger to the wok and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly. These will provide a wonderful flavor to the dish. Remove them from the wok and keep them in a bowl, being careful not to remove the oil.

4. Cooking the meat: Add the beef strips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the wok. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes, or until the meat turns brown. Remove each batch from the wok and set aside.

5. Adding the wine and sauce: Put all the meat back into the wok, add the rice wine and soy sauce. Cover the wok and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Check if the meat is well cooked; if using a meat that requires longer cooking time, you can add a little water to prevent burning.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the meat is cooked, add the onion and ginger mixture, as well as the pineapple pieces. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and add salt or soy sauce to preference.

Serving
This dish is delicious served hot, alongside boiled rice or rice noodles. A fresh vegetable salad or a serving of steamed vegetables can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef, while pineapple adds a note of vitamins, such as vitamin C and fiber. Additionally, soy sauce provides sodium, so it's best consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, the recipe can easily be adapted for chicken, but the cooking time will be reduced.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can experiment with bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or peas, depending on your preferences.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? No, but you can replace the meat with marinated tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

Brief History
Stir-fry is a cooking technique originating from Asian culinary traditions, which has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility. The quick cooking method at high temperatures preserves the nutrients of the vegetables and gives the meat a tender texture. This recipe combines the stir-fry tradition with a surprise ingredient - pineapple, bringing an explosion of flavors.

Variations and Tips
- For a spicier taste: Add a few slices of chili pepper or chili sauce during cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce: You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water to the sauce in the wok for a creamy consistency.
- For an exotic twist: Experiment with spices like turmeric or coriander to give a unique note to the dish.

I conclude this recipe with a thought: cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to express your creativity. Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent around the table!