Tender Beef Stir-Fry (Chinese Secret to Softening Tough Beef)

Ingredients:

• 500g (1 pound) beef (sirloin, flank, or other cuts)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for marinating)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
• 2-3 tbsp water or broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds or chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Tenderizing the Beef:
   • Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain.
   • In a bowl, sprinkle the baking soda over the beef. Mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated.
   • Let the beef sit for 15-20 minutes to tenderize.
   • After the resting period, rinse the beef thoroughly under cold water to remove the baking soda, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Marinate the Beef:
   • In another bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir in 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
   • Add the dried beef strips into the marinade, mixing well to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir-frying the Beef:
   • Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry until browned and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
4. Cooking the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced bell pepper and onion, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
5. Combining:
   • Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
   • Add hoisin sauce and a couple of tablespoons of water or broth to create a sauce. Stir well to combine.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce if needed.
6. Serving:
   • Serve hot with rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy your tender and flavorful stir-fried beef!

This method ensures that even the toughest cuts of beef become soft and succulent in just a few minutes.