Savory Beef With Garlic Sauce Recipe Idea

If there's one ingredient that can be notoriously powerful yet wonderfully aromatic in a dish, it's garlic. This pungent bulb can elevate flavors and transform dishes, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a classic dish that combines tender beef with a rich garlic sauce, promising a delectable dining experience. From the right cut of beef to the perfect garlic-to-oil ratio, we’ve got your garlic fest covered.

Ingredients List

You'll need the following ingredients to make beef with garlic sauce:

• 1 pound of flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 head of garlic, peeled and minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon of Shaoxing wine (optional, can substitute with dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1/2 cup of beef or chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon of white pepper
• Salt to taste

Gather these ingredients to prepare your station before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Preparation Steps

Slicing the Beef

For this recipe, it is essential to slice your beef as thinly as possible against the grain to ensure tenderness. In a quick motion, cut your flank steak into very thin slices, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

Handling the Garlic

Mince the garlic as finely as your knife skill allows. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can crush the garlic with the side of your knife after mincing or use a garlic press. This helps release more flavor and blend the garlic better throughout the dish.

Marinating the Beef

In a bowl, mix the beef slices with the cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. This quick marinade will help to tenderize the beef and add a hint of umami flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the beef slices in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 1 minute to sear. Toss and continue cooking until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Making the Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Shaoxing wine (or sherry), sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Pour in the stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the beef back to the skillet and stir well.
5. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens, usually about a minute.
6. Season with white pepper and taste. Adjust the seasoning with salt or additional soy sauce if necessary.
7. Cook for another minute or until the beef is heated through and evenly coated with the garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete dining experience, serve your beef with garlic sauce over steamed jasmine rice. You can also accompany the dish with stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, broccoli, or bell peppers, for added texture and nutrition. Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Conclusion

Beef with garlic sauce is an aromatic and flavor-packed dish that's a staple in Chinese cuisine. With the right techniques and attention to detail, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. The marriage of tender beef and a velvety garlic sauce is sure to please anyone's taste buds, especially those who can't get enough of the garlicky goodness. So, roll up your sleeves, prep your ingredients, and get ready to savor the satisfying flavors of this home-cooked dish.