Tomato Beef Stir-Fry
Tender slices of beef paired with ripe, juicy tomatoes in a savory-sweet sauce. This classic home-style Chinese dish is quick to prepare and full of bright, comforting flavors.
Story
A beloved comfort food in Chinese households, this dish balances the richness of beef with the natural sweetness of tomatoes. The sauce clings perfectly to the beef slices, making it irresistible served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
beef sirloin or tenderloin
300g, thinly sliced against the grain
ripe tomatoes
2 medium, cut into wedges or chunks
cooking oil
3 tablespoons
light soy sauce
2 tablespoons
cornstarch
1.5 tablespoons
sugar
1 teaspoon
salt
to taste
garlic
2 cloves, minced
green onions
2 stalks, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1
Marinate the beef
Combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the liquid is absorbed. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
2
Prep the tomatoes
While the beef marinates, cut the tomatoes into wedges or chunky pieces. Set aside within reach of your stove.
3
Sear the beef
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for about 1 minute per side until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4
Build the sauce
In the same wok, add the remaining oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 10 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
5
Combine and finish
Return the beef to the wok. Add the remaining soy sauce and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt to taste. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the beef. Garnish with green onions if using and serve immediately over steamed rice.
