| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 451 | 29g | 10g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 28g | 1.8g |
There’s no hesitation when I say that my Spicy Chili Pepper Leaves and Beef Stir-fry is a special favorite of mine. As a California girl born and raised in the sun-kissed valleys of the West Coast, my approach to food is a harmonious blend of wholesome, health-centric cooking with a nod to American comfort food classics. This particular recipe, with its vibrant colors and nourishing ingredients, encapsulates those very values perfectly.
A Fusion of Fresh Ingredients
What really makes this beef stir-fry stand out is the emphasis on fresh vegetables and high-quality beef. Often overlooked, chili pepper leaves are a unique addition that lends an exciting, nuanced kick of spice and a wealth of health benefits, from a rich antioxidant content to a boost for your immune system. The vibrant jalapeños and red bell peppers not only add a picturesque pop of color but are also packed full of essential vitamins. And when these veggies are stir-fried with lean, flavorful flank steak, you get a one-dish wonder that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
A Comforting Stir-fry with a Twist
This Spicy Chili Pepper Leaves and Beef Stir-fry is reminiscent of traditional Asian stir-fries, with the addition of a few unexpected, bold flavors. The infusion of fresh ginger and chili paste creates a delightful heat, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end perfectly balances out the flavors. Interestingly, the chili flakes give you the control to enhance the heat to your liking. The blend of these tastes creates a symphony of flavor in every bite. Paired with fluffy steamed rice, it’s a complete meal that is as satisfying as it is heartwarming.
I usually find this recipe works exceptionally well with light, crunchy Asian salads, or as the main event in a broader Asian-inspired spread. And if you’re a wine enthusiast like myself, a lovely Crisp Riesling or Grüner Veltliner pairs incredibly well to complement the spicy and savory flavors of the stir-fry.
I believe that food has the power to bring us comfort, promote good health, and unite us around the dinner table. This dynamic, zesty, and nutrient-packed Spicy Chili Pepper Leaves and Beef Stir-fry is a testament to that belief, and I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine.
What You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1-1/2 pounds beef flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeds and ribs removed, thinly sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, seeds removed, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 1 cup chili pepper leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust according to taste)
- Steamed rice for serving
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large wok or frying pan. Add the beef to the pan and cook until it is thoroughly browned, ensuring to stir frequently to avoid it sticking to the pan.
Step Two
Once your beef is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add your thinly sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and starts to brown slightly.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and jalapeno peppers to the pan. Continue to stir these ingredients around for several minutes until they are nicely softened.
Step Four
Add the red bell pepper to the pan and stir-fry them with the onions and peppers until they are just starting to soften.
Step Five
Return the beef to the pan and add the soy sauce, chili paste, and chili pepper leaves. Mix all the ingredients together and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until all the flavors are well combined.
Step Six
Add salt according to your preference, followed by fresh lime juice and red chili flakes. Remember the heat level can be adjusted with the amount of chili flakes used. Stir everything together and cook for another minute or so.
Step Seven
Serve your Spicy Chili Pepper Leaves and Beef Stir-fry hot over steamed rice. Enjoy the rich flavors and heat of this delightful dish!
