How to Make Thai Beef with Chili and Garlic
Thai Beef with Chili and Garlic is a flavorful dish that brings together tender beef, aromatic garlic, and fiery chili for a truly unforgettable meal. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this tantalizing dish.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 pound of beef (sirloin or flank steak is recommended)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2–3 Thai bird's eye chilies, chopped (adjust to your heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Steamed jasmine rice (for serving)
Preparing the Beef
To start, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure each piece is tender after cooking. Once you have your beef sliced, marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar for about 15 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
Cooking the Dish
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes or until the garlic turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Next, add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to sear for about 2–3 minutes without stirring. This will help achieve a nice sear on the meat. After searing, stir-fry the beef until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness, usually about 3–5 minutes more, depending on the thickness of the pieces.
Finishing Touches
Once the beef is cooked, give the dish a quick taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more fish sauce or sugar, depending on your preference for salty or sweet notes. If you like, toss in some fresh basil leaves for added freshness and aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Thai Beef with Chili and Garlic hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. You can also garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or sliced chilies for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Thai Beef
- For maximum flavor, let the beef marinate longer if you have time. Up to an hour can make a significant difference.
- Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your heat tolerance. You can also use red bell peppers for a milder option.
- To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas while stir-frying.
With its vibrant flavors, Thai Beef with Chili and Garlic is a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends. It’s quick to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary journey into Thai cuisine!