This Thai Beef recipe is a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand. Tender strips of beef are marinated in a flavorful blend of Thai spices, then stir-fried with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients for Thai Beef
- 1 lb (450g) beef steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Cooked rice, to serve
How to Make Thai Beef
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili (if using). Add the sliced beef and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Stir-Fry the Beef:
- Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a splash of oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the onion and bell pepper slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour in the coconut milk and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Serve the Thai beef over cooked rice, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
About the Main Ingredients
Beef: Thinly sliced beef works best for this recipe. Look for cuts like sirloin or flank steak, which are tender and cook quickly.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty umami flavor to the marinade.
Oyster Sauce: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Fish Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor that is essential in Thai cuisine.
Brown Sugar: Balances out the salty and savory flavors of the dish.
Garlic and Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that add depth of flavor.
Chili: Adds heat to the dish, but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
Vegetables: Onion and bell pepper add color, texture, and flavor to the dish.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant and herbaceous note to the finished dish.
