Why You’ll Love this Shaking Beef Recipe
Whether you’re a fan of beef or just looking for a delicious meal to impress your friends, you’re going to love this Shaking Beef recipe.
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The marinated steak becomes incredibly tender, bursting with flavor from the garlic and fish sauce.
Plus, the sizzling action in the wok adds a fun element to cooking. I adore how vibrant the dish looks, garnished with fresh lettuce, cucumber, and onion.
Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients of Shaking Beef
When it comes to making Shaking Beef, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving that mouthwatering flavor and tender texture. This dish might seem fancy, but don’t worry—it’s pretty simple to pull together.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just dipping your toes into the cooking waters, you’ll find that these ingredients aren’t only easy to gather but also quite common. Plus, by using fresh ingredients, you’re elevating the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
So, let’s check out what you need to make this tasty treat.
Ingredients for Shaking Beef:
- 1 lb steak fillet
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 mignonette lettuce
- 1 small Lebanese cucumber
- 1/2 red onion
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. Choosing the right cut of beef is key, and steak fillet is a great choice because it’s tender and cooks beautifully.
When it comes to the garlic, feel free to adjust the amount based on your love for this aromatic flavor—more garlic means more flavor, right?
And while fish sauce might sound a little intimidating if you’ve never used it before, trust me, it adds an umami punch that just takes the dish to another level.
As for the veggies, they not only add color but also a revitalizing crunch to contrast with the savory beef.
How to Make Shaking Beef
Making Shaking Beef is easier than you might think, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be shaking things up in the kitchen like a pro.
First things first, grab that 1 pound of steak fillet and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Don’t worry if they’re not all perfect; we’re not auditioning for a cooking show here. Just make sure they’re somewhat uniform so they cook evenly.
Then, toss those cubes into a mixing bowl along with 4 finely chopped garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. Mix it all together like you mean it, and let those flavors start to mingle. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to marinate for about an hour. This step is where the magic happens—your beef will soak up all that yummy goodness.
Once the hour is up, it’s time to get cooking. Heat a heavy-based wok until it’s really hot. I mean, like, “I should probably be careful” hot. This is the secret to getting that nice sear on your beef.
Now, don’t dump all the meat in at once; that’s a rookie mistake. Cook the beef in three batches, giving it room to breathe and brown. As you toss the meat—yes, toss it, don’t just stir—use a bit of a shaking motion with the wok. It’s like you’re giving it a little dance, and trust me, it’ll be worth it. You want it seared on the outside but still pink in the center, which is the sign of perfectly cooked steak.
Once you’ve got all your meat cooked to perfection, pile it up in the center of a serving plate. Now, for the finishing touches, grab that lovely mignonette lettuce, wash it, and separate the leaves.
Slice up your small Lebanese cucumber and half a red onion into thin pieces. Arrange them around the beef, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a stunning dish that’s sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on it. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with delight.
Shaking Beef Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Shaking Beef, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can use chicken or shrimp if you’re craving something lighter. For a vegetarian option, try marinating tofu instead of beef.
Instead of fish sauce, tamari or soy sauce works well for a different flavor profile. If you’re in the mood for a spicy kick, add some chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil to freshen up the dish. It’s all about making it your own!
What to Serve with Shaking Beef
While Shaking Beef shines on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to a new level.
I love serving it with fragrant jasmine rice, which balances the savory flavors beautifully. A fresh Vietnamese salad adds a crisp contrast; think shredded carrots, herbs, and a zesty lime dressing.
You can’t go wrong with a side of pickled vegetables for that tangy kick. For extra crunch, crispy spring rolls are always a hit.
Finally, a light dipping sauce, like a spicy chili sauce, complements the beef perfectly. These additions make the meal truly delightful!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing Shaking Beef with the right sides enhances the overall experience, but there are also significant tips to keep in mind for the best results.
Make certain to marinate the beef for at least an hour to let those flavors sink in. When cooking, don’t overcrowd the wok; it’s vital to sear the beef properly.
I also recommend using a heavy-based wok for even heat distribution. Finally, serve it immediately to guarantee the meat stays juicy and tender.
Enjoying this dish with a revitalizing dipping sauce can elevate it further, so don’t skip that part! Happy cooking!