Easy Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry (No MSG)
Ingredients:
- 350 grams beef (thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 shallots (finely chopped)
- 1 cm galangal (crushed)
- 1/2 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mushroom seasoning (as a substitute for MSG)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 carrot (optional, sliced)
- 1 bunch pak choi (optional, chopped)
- 1 bunch broccoli (optional, cut into florets)
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef: Thinly slice the beef into wide strips. This will help the beef cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the dish.
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Prepare Aromatics: Finely chop the shallots and garlic. Crush the galangal to release its aromatic oils.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and crushed galangal to the hot oil. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
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Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides.
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Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in approximately 400 cc (1 2/3 cups) of water. Stir in the salt, mushroom seasoning, black pepper, and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Reduce the Sauce: Allow the liquid to reduce until it is nearly evaporated, leaving just a small amount of sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Finish with Onions: Once the sauce has thickened and the beef is cooked through, turn off the heat and mix in the finely chopped onion. The residual heat will soften the onions slightly.
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Cook the Vegetables: While the beef is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Boil the carrots and broccoli together until tender. Drain and set aside. For the pak choi, briefly boil it with a pinch of salt to reduce bitterness. Drain and set aside.
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Serve: Arrange the cooked beef on a serving plate. Top with the boiled vegetables or mix them into the beef. Serve hot.
This easy black pepper beef stir-fry is a flavorful and simple dish that avoids MSG, using mushroom seasoning as a natural flavor enhancer. Perfect for a quick meal, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!