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Joe Wicks Beef Stir Fry

This Joe Wicks-inspired beef stir fry features tender slices of flank steak seared to perfection and tossed with vibrant, crisp vegetables in a savory-sweet garlic-ginger sauce. The dish is quick to prepare, packed with protein, and offers a balanced meal with a delightful contrast of textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish, optional)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the flank steak against the grain into 1/4-inch thick strips. This ensures tender beef by cutting across the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew. Use a sharp knife and chill the beef for 15 minutes if it’s too soft to slice neatly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly until the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature; this helps the flavors penetrate and the cornstarch tenderizes the meat.
  3. While the beef marinates, prepare the vegetables: slice the onion and bell pepper into uniform strips, cut broccoli into florets, and julienne the carrot. Uniform cutting ensures even cooking. Set aside in separate piles or on a cutting board for easy access.
  4. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately. Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Heating the pan properly prevents sticking and allows for quick searing.
  5. Add half of the marinated beef in a single layer, ensuring pieces aren’t crowded. Cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes until browned on one side, then flip and cook for another minute until just cooked through. Overcrowding the pan steams the beef instead of searing it, leading to loss of texture. Remove beef with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.
  6. Repeat with the remaining beef, adding another 1/2 tbsp oil if needed. Cook until browned and set aside with the first batch. This batch cooking ensures each piece gets proper sear and avoids lowering the pan temperature too much.
  7. In the same pan, add the remaining 1/2 tbsp oil if necessary. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  8. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the pan. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining a vibrant color. The salt helps draw out moisture and enhances flavor.
  9. Push vegetables to the side of the pan and pour in the water or beef broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This incorporates fond into the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
  10. Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with any accumulated juices. Toss everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly from the cornstarch. Avoid overcooking to keep the beef tender.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Not recommended for freezing as vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

Nutrition

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