| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15-20 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 345 | 18g | 6g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 32g | 1g |
Why I Love Nigerian Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
There’s a certain magic in the blend of flavors and textures in Nigerian cuisine that brings pure joy to my tastebuds. This is especially true for their Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry, a delectable dish famed for its vivid colors, rich flavors, and all-rounded nutritional value.
The Essence of the Dish
Stir-fries are true culinary chameleons. With origins from Asia to the Americas, they have put on colorful vests and have taken on a multitude of flavors in several continents. Our version today draws heavy inspiration from the West African nation of Nigeria. What may seem like an ordinary stir-fry is actually a vibrant potpourri of regional flavors that leaves a lingering taste of something extraordinary yet familiar.
Think of it as an intersection where the robustness of meaty sirloin, the crunch of mixed vegetables, and the fusion of an exquisite blend of sauces and spices meet. It’s like a Ken Hom stir-fry with a Nigerian twist, riddled with personality, subtlety, and that definite, unique tang.
Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Innovation often springs from necessity. While I couldn’t chance upon any specific Nigerian chef who may have influenced this beef and vegetable stir-fry recipe, it’s evident that Nigerian culinary traditions played a significant role. It’s the beautiful way Nigerian culinary artists use available resources to create gastronomic wonders that truly amazes me.
Take this recipe as an example. The fusion of East Asian technique (stir-frying) with West African ingredients (the beef and an assortment of local vegetables) equals not just another stir-fry, but a delightful feast that could easily grace any international food table.
Perfect Pairings
Looking to impress guests with a full meal? This stir-fry complements just about any carb-loaded side. Consider serving it with a traditional side dish like jollof rice, yam pottage, or even a simple loaf of crusty bread. Alternatively, it pairs beautifully with familiar favorites like egg fried rice or noodles.
In conclusion, allow me to reiterate that something as everyday as this Nigerian Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry can become sublime if crafted with love, care, and an appreciation for diverse culinary traditions. It’s a hearty, wholesome, flavor-packed meal, and at the risk of sounding redundant, I absolutely, unreservedly love it!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 2 medium carrots, sliced diagonally into thin circles
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by patting the beef dry with kitchen paper, seasoning it with salt and pepper.
Step Two
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium to high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef to the pan. Cook until it is browned on all sides and remove from the pan, setting it aside.
Step Three
In the same pan, add the garlic and onions. Sauté until they are fragrant and the onions are lightly golden.
Step Four
Next, add the sliced bell peppers, carrots, broccoli florets, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, until they are tender-crisp.
Step Five
While the vegetables are cooking, create the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch mixture, beef broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar and if you prefer a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes.
Step Six
Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, stirring well to combine. Allow the stir-fry to simmer for an extra minute or so, until the sauce has thickened.
Step Seven
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry hot with a side of steamed rice.
