Garlic-Infused Beef and Crisp Gai Lan Stir-Fry

Savory Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli) with Beef

Description

Step into the heart of deliciousness with this delightful dish inspired by a treasured recipe from my Chinese roommate. This savory blend of beef and Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) is a feast for the senses, perfect for those who adore the robust flavors of garlic and the vibrant crunch of Chinese broccoli. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or seeking a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, this dish promises to infuse your kitchen with irresistible aromas and create a meal your taste buds will remember. The harmony of fish sauce, soy sauce, and fresh garlic brings out the best in tender beef and crisp Gai Lan, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Beef: 1-2 steaks, thinly sliced
• Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: 6, minced
• Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
• Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli): 4-6 stalks, washed and cut into 3-4 inch pieces
• Steamed Rice: For serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: Begin by combining the fish sauce, soy sauce, and cooking oil in a bowl. Place the thinly sliced beef into this mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Allow the beef to marinate for about 30 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate and tenderize the meat. If the marinade doesn’t fully cover the beef, add a bit more of the mixture to ensure even coverage.

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2. Prepare the Gai Lan: While the beef marinates, wash the Gai Lan thoroughly. Cut it into 3-4 inch pieces, making sure to keep the leaves and stalks attached for better texture and flavor.

3. Blanch the Gai Lan: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the Gai Lan pieces. Cook them in the boiling water until they reach your desired level of tenderness. For a slightly crispy texture, blanch for just a few minutes and then promptly remove from the pot. Drain and set aside.

4. Cook the Garlic: Heat a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add about 1 teaspoon of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, sauté the minced garlic until it becomes lightly browned. Be cautious, as garlic can sizzle and burn quickly.

5. Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef along with its marinade to the pan with the browned garlic. Stir-fry the beef until it is cooked through and nicely caramelized. The combination of the garlic-infused oil and marinade will enhance the beef’s flavor.

6. Assemble and Serve: Arrange the blanched Gai Lan on a serving plate. Top with the cooked beef, and pour any remaining sauce from the pan over the top. Serve this delicious beef and Gai Lan mixture over steamed rice.

7. Enjoy: Garnish with additional chopped garlic or fresh herbs if desired. Use any leftover sauce to drizzle over the rice and vegetables for extra flavor.

Notes

• Salt Content: This dish might be quite salty for some, due to the fish sauce and soy sauce. To reduce the saltiness, consider using lite soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

• Texture Tip: For a varied texture, ensure that both the leaves and stalks of the Gai Lan are included, as the combination provides a pleasing crunch and flavor balance.

• Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice and can be complemented with a light, crisp salad or pickled vegetables.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this flavorful Gai Lan and Beef dish, and savor the delightful aromas and tastes of this quick and easy recipe! 🌟🍚🍴