Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Did you ever find yourself craving something quick and healthy that still feels indulgent? For me, nothing hits the spot like a hearty beef dish paired with bright, fresh veggies. This asparagus beef recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years.
It’s bursting with flavor and goes perfectly alongside a simple bowl of steamed rice or even served over noodles. Believe me, it’s one of those meals where every bite makes you wonder why you don’t whip it up more often.
Asparagus beef is a vibrant dish that merges tender beef with crunchy asparagus in a savory sauce. It’s a recipe that’s not just pleasing to the eye but also to the palate. It comes together swiftly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or delightful weekend meals.
Whether it’s served as a special occasion feast or just a regular dinner, this dish receives love and compliments, gliding into the hearts of both kids and adults.
This dish combines perfectly cooked beef, often flank or sirloin steak, with fresh asparagus, resulting in a fantastic balance of textures and flavors. The quick cooking technique allows the ingredients to retain their natural taste while soaking up a delicious, slightly sweet sauce. We’re mixing traditional Asian flavors here with a modern twist, making this dish not just mouthwatering but also a healthier alternative to many rich takeaway meals.
Here’s what you’ll need for a scrumptious asparagus beef dish. Make sure to gather these fresh ingredients before you get started:
- 12 oz. flank steak or sirloin steak (340g, thinly sliced)
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon oil (plus more for cooking)
- 5 teaspoons light soy sauce (divided)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup hot chicken stock (or water)
- 3 tablespoons shaoxing wine
- 3 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed into a slurry with 2 tablespoons water
- 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced) (added for additional flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Ingredients From : thewoksoflife.com
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps. This cooking method is quick, so having everything prepared in advance is crucial for a smooth execution.
In a medium-sized bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with 1 teaspoon of oil, 1 teaspoon of light soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. This mixture will help tenderize the meat and create a lovely sear. Set this mixture aside to marinate briefly while you prep the vegetables.
Rinse your fresh asparagus under cool water, then trim off about an inch from the bottom ends. If the stalks look especially thick or tough, feel free to use a vegetable peeler to shave a bit of the outer layer off to make them more tender. Slice your asparagus into 2-inch diagonal pieces for that perfect bite.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 teaspoons of light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, sugar, hot chicken stock or water, and ground white pepper. Stir this mixture well and set it aside. This sauce is going to melt perfectly into the beef and asparagus, adding depth and flavor.
Before you heat up your wok, do one more thing: have your shaoxing wine measured out, sliced garlic at the ready, and the cornstarch slurry fully mixed. Everything moves fast from here on out, so preparation is crucial!
Heat your wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of oil, swirling it around to coat the surface. Immediately spread the marinated beef into the wok in a single layer. Let it sear for 15-30 seconds without stirring. Once you see that lovely brown color forming, give it a quick toss to sear the other side before removing the beef from the pan. Set the beef aside temporarily.
With the wok still on high heat, drizzle in another tablespoon or so of oil. Add the sliced garlic and asparagus. Stir them together for about 10 seconds, then carefully pour the shaoxing wine around the rim of the wok.
Cover the wok to allow the asparagus to steam for 20-30 seconds. After this, remove the lid and quickly pour in your pre-mixed sauce. Stir to combine everything, then add the beef back into the pan, mixing it well. At this stage, the dish should begin to bubble up, showcasing all those beautifully melded flavors.
Before it’s done cooking, remember that cornstarch slurry you mixed? Give it a good stir to ensure it’s dissolved completely and pour in about half of it into the wok. Stir constantly. If the sauce looks thick enough, great! If it still seems too thin, add more slurry. If it’s too thick, don’t panic! A splash of water or stock will help thin it out to the desired consistency.
Now, it’s time to plate this masterpiece. Serve the asparagus beef straight out of the wok for maximum freshness and flavor. Enjoy this dish hot to savor those delicious, bold flavors.
- Use a good quality wok to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For extra crunch, you can toss in some slivered carrots or bell peppers.
- Marinating the beef for a bit longer will enhance its flavor, but even a quick 15 minutes works wonders.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or a pan on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the sauce. This dish does not freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Serve over steamed rice for a classic pairing.
- Pair with quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist.
- Include a side salad to add freshness and balance to your meal.
- Offer crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Complement with a glass of red wine for a relaxing dinner atmosphere.
- Flank steak: You can use ribeye or tenderloin for a richer flavor but at a higher price point.
- Asparagus: If it’s out of season, try green beans or snap peas for a lovely crunch.
- Soy sauce: If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari works great as a substitute.
- Shaoxing wine: For a non-alcoholic version, replace it with a mixture of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar.
- Dark soy sauce: You can use more light soy sauce with a touch of molasses for a similar taste.
This asparagus beef recipe is a lively dish that’s straightforward to prepare and delivers on flavor without needing hours in the kitchen. With the combination of tender meat and fresh vegetables, each mouthful is a celebration of taste and texture.
It’s a go-to recipe that will impress friends and family while ensuring that you don’t spend too much time cooking. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weekday or serving it at your next gathering, the joy it brings is undeniable. Happy cooking!
Asparagus beef is a vibrant dish that merges tender beef with crunchy asparagus in a savory sauce. It’s a recipe that’s not just pleasing to the eye but also to the palate. It comes together swiftly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or delightful weekend meals.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Use a good quality wok to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For extra crunch, you can toss in some slivered carrots or bell peppers.
- Marinating the beef for a bit longer will enhance its flavor, but even a quick 15 minutes works wonders.
Willie Regan is a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, inspired by the comforting, traditional recipes passed down from his grandmother. Based in Worcester, Willie shares wholesome, heartwarming dishes through his blog Grandma’s Tasty Recipes, blending nostalgic flavors with modern dietary insights. His mission is to bring people together through food, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished memories around the table.