Quick Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry with Fresh Veggies

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:

1. Prepare the Beef: Thinly slice the beef into wide strips. This will help the beef cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the dish.

2. Prepare Aromatics: Finely chop the shallots and garlic. Crush the galangal to release its aromatic oils.

3. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.

4. Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and crushed galangal to the hot oil. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.

5. Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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!