As the sun sets, the smell of beef and tomato fills the air. It brings back memories of family dinners. This dish was always on our table, making us feel close.
The beef and tomatoes mixed perfectly, creating a delicious taste. It fed our bodies and warmed our hearts.
Now, as a busy adult, I miss that comfort. That’s why I’m sharing this Chinese beef tomato stir-fry recipe. It’s a simple dish that takes just 30 minutes to make.
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Why This Chinese-Inspired Beef Tomato Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
Prepare to amaze your taste buds with this Chinese-inspired beef tomato recipe. It’s destined to be a family favourite. The dish pairs tender beefsteak tomatoes with savoury beef for a meal that’s as good as takeout.
This recipe shines because it’s easy and versatile. You’ll need common kitchen items, making it budget-friendly for weeknights. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a tasty dinner fast.
The secret to this recipe’s success is its balanced flavours. The beef is marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and spices, making it tender and adding a rich umami taste. The tomatoes add a sweet, juicy contrast that pairs well with the beef.
If you want to spice up your dinner routine or introduce new flavours to your family, try this recipe. It’s a delicious mix of tender beef and juicy tomatoes. You’ll love every bite.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 435 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 41g |
| Sodium | 1067mg |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 107mg |
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Beef Tomato Dish
Creating a tasty beef tomato dish starts with the right ingredients. The choice of beef and tomatoes is crucial. Each part adds to the dish’s flavour and harmony. Let’s explore the key elements that make your homemade dish stand out.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
For tender and juicy results, choose flank steak or sirloin. These cuts have great marbling, making the dish flavorful and tender. If you prefer a leaner option, 97% lean ground beef is a healthy yet tasty choice.
Best Tomato Varieties to Use
For the best flavour, use larger tomatoes like beefsteak, Brandywine, or Roma. They’re juicy and have a flavour that pairs well with beef. Their size also makes the dish look and taste great.
Key Aromatics and Seasonings
Onions, fresh ginger, and garlic add depth to the dish. Ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch make a great sauce. Green onions, sugar, and baking soda add to the taste.
Choosing the right beef, tomatoes, and seasonings makes a dish everyone will love. Start your culinary journey with this Chinese-inspired recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 97% lean ground beef | 300 g |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups (165 g) |
| Water | ½ cup (120 ml) |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Active dry yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Finely chopped onion | 1 cup (160 g) |
| Diced carrots | 1 cup (130 g) |
| Diced red bell pepper | 1 cup (100 g) |
| Diced zucchini | 1 cup (100 g) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | ½ teaspoon |
Traditional Chinese vs American Beef Tomato Variations
Beef tomato dishes have their unique styles in China and America. The Chinese version, known as Chinese beef tomato stir-fry, uses flank steak and fresh tomatoes in a sweet sauce. On the other hand, American goulash combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and canned tomatoes.
The way these dishes are made is quite different. Chinese stir-fries keep the beef tender and the tomatoes juicy. American goulash, however, simmers everything together for a cosy feel.
Seasonings and flavours also differ. Chinese stir-fries use ginger and garlic for a sweet and savoury taste. American goulash, with its Italian herbs, has a more savoury flavour.
| Characteristic | Chinese Beef Tomato Stir-Fry | American Goulash |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Cut | Flank steak | Ground beef |
| Tomato Type | Fresh tomatoes | Canned tomato products |
| Cooking Method | Stir-frying | Simmering |
| Key Seasonings | Ginger, garlic | Italian herbs (oregano, basil) |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and savory | Sweet and savoury |
Whether you like the authentic Chinese stir-fry or the comforting American goulash, both are tasty. They offer great ways to enjoy beef and tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making the perfect beef tomato stir-fry is a fun mix of techniques. Start by marinating the beef to make it tender. Then, make a tasty sauce. Finally, precise cooking methods should be used to get restaurant-quality results.
Marinating the Beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender. In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, baking soda, and garlic powder. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This lets the flavours mix and the meat tenderize.
Creating the Perfect Sauce
While the beef marinates, make the sauce. Mix ketchup, sugar, and a cornstarch slurry. This sweet and savoury mix complements the beef and tomatoes well.
Cooking Techniques for Tender Results
- Warm up a wok or big pan over high heat. Use a neutral oil like avocado or peanut oil.
- Stir-fry the marinated beef until it’s about 75% cooked. This makes it tender and juicy.
- Add minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry to release their flavours.
- Pour in the sauce and let it simmer until thickened. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Spread the ingredients across the pan. Stir frequently to cook evenly and prevent burning.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious beef tomato stir-fry. It’s a mix of tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a winning combo for a tasty and easy dinner.
The Secret to Tenderizing Your Beef
Getting the right texture for your beef stir-fry is key. The secret is in tenderizing the meat. Use 2 to 3 pounds of boneless chuck steak or bottom round. The goal is to make the meat tender through simple techniques.
Using baking soda in your marinade is a great trick. It changes the meat’s pH, making it tender. Adding cornstarch or potato starch also helps keep moisture in, improving the feel in your mouth.
Slicing the beef against the grain and freezing it briefly is another trick. This breaks down muscle fibres, making the meat tender. Don’t overcook the beef. Stir-fry it quickly over high heat to keep it juicy and tender.
With these simple steps, you can make your beef stir-fry tender and delicious. The right preparation and cooking can make your dish as good as a restaurant’s.
How to Create the Perfect Tomato Sauce Base
Start by making a tasty tomato sauce base for your beef stir-fry. It’s all about finding the right mix of sweet and savoury. With a few easy steps, you can make a sauce that will wow your loved ones.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors
Start with fresh plum tomatoes and a bit of ketchup. The ketchup adds a sweetness that balances the tomatoes’ tartness. Add a tablespoon of sugar for more sweetness. This makes the sauce taste great all around.
Thickening Techniques
To get the sauce just right, use a cornstarch slurry. Combine a tablespoon of cornstarch with water, then pour it into the sauce. Let it simmer until it’s thick enough. Season with soy sauce and a bit of salt to get the flavours just right.
Learning to make a tasty tomato sauce base is key to a great tomato sauce for beef stir-fry. Serve it with tender beef and over rice or noodles for a meal everyone will love.
Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results
To make your homemade beef tomato recipe taste like it’s from a restaurant, follow these tips. First, use high heat and a well-seasoned wok or large skillet. This helps with searing and caramelizing the ingredients.
Cook the ingredients in small batches. This prevents overcrowding, which can make the food steam instead of sear. Also, add ingredients at the right time to keep the texture and doneness perfect.
Next, choose the freshest, highest-quality produce and meats. Fresh tomatoes and tender beef make a big difference. Make sure the sauce is just right, adjusting its thickness with a cornstarch slurry or more liquid if needed.
- Use high heat and a well-seasoned wok or skillet for optimal searing and caramelization.
- Cook ingredients in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper searing.
- Time the addition of ingredients carefully to maintain the ideal texture and doneness.
- Source the freshest, highest-quality produce and meats for the best results.
- Adjust the sauce consistency as needed with cornstarch slurry or additional liquid.
By following these tips, you can make your homemade beef tomato recipe taste like it’s from a restaurant. Your family and friends will love it. Bon appétit!
| Tomato Toast Method | Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Smashed Tomatoes | 3 |
| Butter | 4 |
| Marinated Tomatoes | 5 |
| Roasted Tomatoes | 6 |
| Plain Tomatoes | 7 |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings
To complete your Chinese-inspired beef tomato dinner, serve the stir-fry over fluffy white rice, nutty brown rice, or versatile noodles. For a low-carb option, try ricing cauliflower. Pair the beef tomato dish with vibrant vegetable sides like sautéed bok choy, garlic-infused green beans, or stir-fried snow pea leaves. This creates a well-balanced meal.
Rice and Noodle Options
Steamed white rice or flavorful brown rice soak up the savoury beef tomato sauce perfectly. For a change, serve the dish over tender egg noodles or zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. Cauliflower rice is also a great choice, offering a lighter option that complements the bold flavours.
Vegetable Accompaniments
Complete your Chinese-inspired dinner with fresh, crisp vegetables. Sautéed bok choy, garlicky green beans, or stir-fried snow pea leaves add colour, texture, and nutrition. For a full experience, start with classic appetizers like egg rolls or egg drop soup. This enhances the authentic Chinese flavours.