Szechuan Pepper Beef Stir-Fry

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb (450 g) beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon rice wine or sherry
1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3-4 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns (adjust to taste)
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed
1 small onion, sliced
2-3 tablespoons chili paste or sauce (adjust to taste)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:
Combine Marinade: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry:
Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Toast Peppercorns: Add the Szechuan peppercorns to the hot oil and toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Beef:
Stir-Fry Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until it is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry Vegetables:
Add Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced bell pepper, snap peas (or green beans), and onion. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan and add chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve:
Plate the Dish: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
Tips:
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili paste based on your preference.
Serve this stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy your Szechuan Pepper Beef Stir-Fry as a spicy and flavorful dish that packs a punch!