String Beans And Beef

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

Tender beef slices coated in savory soy sauce and complemented by crisp frozen string beans, delivering a quick, flavorful stir-fry perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. beef (top round), thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. sherry (optional)
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 1 package frozen string beans

Instructions

  1. Prepare marinade by mixing soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and sherry.
  2. Marinate the beef slices in the mixture for a few minutes.
  3. Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the beef slices for a few seconds until browned.
  5. Prepare the frozen string beans according to package instructions, then add them to the pan with the water they were cooked in.
  6. Simmer everything together for a few seconds to combine flavors.
  7. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more tender beef, consider marinating for up to an hour. If you don't have sherry, you can substitute with rice vinegar or omit it entirely. To add more flavor, try incorporating garlic or ginger into the marinade. For a crunchier texture, briefly blanch the string beans before adding them to the pan. This dish can pair beautifully with Chinese recipes featuring rice or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside fried rice for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the flavors. For a more elaborate dinner, consider serving with a side of Delicious Chop Suey or Chinese Pepper Steak With Rice.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm it gently, adding a splash of water to keep the beef and string beans moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of String Beans And Beef contains roughly 551 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2003mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).

551 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 60.6g 78% DV
Carbs 2.7g 1% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2003.3mg 87% DV
Potassium 35.7mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.7mcg
Vitamin C 2.7mg 3% DV
Calcium 4mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh string beans instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh string beans can be used instead of frozen. Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the pan. This will enhance their flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for beef in this recipe?

You can easily substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter option. If using chicken, cook it until it's no longer pink. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu, cubed and pan-fried until golden.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! To add heat, consider incorporating sliced fresh chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or a dash of sriracha into the marinade or while cooking. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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