Description
This Stir-Fry with Chinese Yam and Beef is a delicious and healthy dish that brings together tender strips of beef, the earthy flavors of Chinese yam, and a savory stir-fry sauce. It’s a great combination of textures and flavors—perfect for a quick, nutritious meal. Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a great addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
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1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
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1 medium Chinese yam (also known as “nagaimo” or “yamaimo”), peeled and cut into thin slices or matchsticks
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1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 medium onion, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp ginger, grated or finely chopped
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2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
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1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra depth of flavor)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
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1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
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2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef:
Slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Optionally, you can toss the beef with cornstarch to help thicken the sauce later. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
Peel and cut the Chinese yam into thin slices or matchsticks. Slice the bell pepper and onion. Mince the garlic and grate or chop the ginger. -
Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. -
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the grated ginger and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Add the Chinese Yam:
Add the Chinese yam slices to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. The yam should become tender but still slightly crisp. -
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). -
Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and toss everything together to coat evenly. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. -
Serve:
Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve on its own or with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
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Chinese yam, also known as “nagaimo” or “yamaimo,” has a unique texture and is often used in Asian dishes for its mild flavor and crispy texture. If you can’t find Chinese yam, you can substitute with regular yam or another root vegetable like sweet potato.
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If you want extra sauce, you can increase the amount of soy sauce, oyster sauce, or add a bit more rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.
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For added crunch, you can top with chopped peanuts or cashews.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese, Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (assuming 4 servings)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg