Beijing beef is a delicious, crispy dish with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce that traces its origins to the bustling culinary scene of Beijing. This flavor-packed dish is often a favorite in Chinese restaurants, known for its tender beef and vibrant veggies coated in a delectable sauce. Preparing Beijing beef at home can bring a taste of China to your dinner table, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy exploring international cuisines in the comfort of their own kitchen.

Beijing beef pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a light cucumber salad can balance the richness of the beef. For a complete meal, you might include some spring rolls or dumplings on the side.

Servings: 4

1 pound beef flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Sauce:
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon chili sauce or red pepper flakes
1/2 cup water

1. Toss the beef strips with cornstarch until they are well coated. Set aside for 10 minutes.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the beef strips in batches until they are crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the red bell pepper and yellow onion, and sauté until they are just tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

5. Return the beef to the skillet. Mix the ingredients for the sauce in a bowl and pour it over the beef and vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook together for about 5 more minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is well coated.

6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of chili sauce or red pepper flakes. If you're cooking for kids or picky eaters, you can substitute the bell peppers with carrots or peas for a sweeter flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, ensure to use gluten-free soy sauce and check the labels on your hoisin sauce.

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