Beef Stir-fry with Couscous

Beef Stir-fry with Couscous Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef Stir-fry with Couscous is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that promises to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe combines the tenderness of sirloin steak with the light, fluffy texture of couscous, all brought together with a rich barbecue sauce and the fresh crunch of bell peppers and onions. It's a perfect dish for those who love the combination of savory beef with the subtle sweetness of barbecue sauce, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

History

The concept of stir-frying meat with vegetables hails from Asian cuisine, where it has been a cooking staple for centuries. Couscous, on the other hand, originates from North African cuisine, particularly within Berber traditions. This recipe represents a beautiful blend of these two culinary worlds, marrying the quick-cooking method of stir-frying with the traditional grain of couscous. Over time, it has evolved into a modern dish that is both easy to prepare and delicious, making it a favorite among home cooks looking for a meal that is both nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients

1.25 lb (567 g) boneless beef top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch thick slices
1 can (13.75 to 14.5 oz (411 g)) single strength beef broth
1 cup couscous
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 0.25-inch thick strips
0.5 cup coarsely chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion
0.5 cup prepared honey-Dijon barbecue sauce
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
parsley sprigs

How to prepare

Trim the fat from the beef steak.
Cut the steak lengthwise in half and then crosswise into 0.25 inch thick strips; set them aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil.
Stir in the couscous; cover the pan and remove it from the heat.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add the beef, 0.5 at a time, and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes or until the outside surface is no longer pink.
Remove the beef from the skillet with a slotted spoon and keep it warm.
In the same skillet, stir-fry the bell pepper and onion for 2 to 3 minutes or until they are crisp-tender.
Return the beef to the skillet and stir in the barbecue sauce.
Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes or until it is heated through.
Arrange the beef mixture on top of the couscous and sprinkle it with chopped parsley.
Garnish it with parsley sprigs.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider substituting chicken or shrimp for the beef. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas or carrots, to add color and crunch. For a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of chili sauce to the barbecue sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Beef Stir-fry with Couscous turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Always preheat your skillet before adding the oil and beef to ensure a nice sear.

- Cut the beef into evenly sized strips to promote uniform cooking.

- Use a high-smoke-point oil like olive oil to prevent burning.

- Cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.

- Fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to prevent it from clumping together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef Stir-fry over a bed of fluffy couscous, garnished with fresh parsley sprigs for a touch of color and freshness. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad would complement the dish nicely, adding a variety of textures and flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick and healthy cooking technique that retains the nutrients of the ingredients while ensuring they are cooked evenly. It's important to keep the ingredients moving in the skillet to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking. Couscous should be cooked according to package instructions, ensuring it is light and fluffy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If couscous is not available or you're looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa or rice makes an excellent substitute. For a lower-fat version, consider using a leaner cut of beef or adjusting the amount of olive oil used.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef can be marinated ahead of time to enhance its flavor. Additionally, the vegetables can be sliced and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Couscous can be cooked in advance and reheated, though it's best when fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stir-fry in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful vegetables and succulent beef. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil can add an Asian flair to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a light iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The couscous can be microwaved with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Stir-fry with Couscous contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a moderately calorie-dense meal, suitable for those managing their calorie intake for weight maintenance or loss.

Carbohydrates

Couscous is the primary source of carbohydrates in this dish, providing about 36 grams per cup. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good source of quick energy, especially if consumed during lunchtime.

Fats

The olive oil and the natural fats from the sirloin steak contribute to the fat content of this dish. Olive oil is a healthy monounsaturated fat, while the sirloin steak provides both saturated and unsaturated fats. In total, this dish contains approximately 10 grams of fat per serving, with a balance of both healthy fats and those to consume in moderation.

Proteins

Sirloin steak is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with this dish providing about 22 grams of protein per serving. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, making this an ideal meal for post-workout recovery or to maintain lean muscle mass.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the red bell peppers and onions. Red bell peppers are an excellent source of Vitamin C, while onions provide a good amount of Vitamin B6. Together, they contribute to a healthy immune system and energy metabolism.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe include gluten (in the couscous) and potential allergens in the barbecue sauce, such as soy or wheat. Always check the labels if you're using store-bought barbecue sauce to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, Beef Stir-fry with Couscous is a balanced meal offering a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Summary

Beef Stir-fry with Couscous is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal that combines the best of several culinary traditions. With its balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, it's a satisfying dish that's sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you're cooking for one or preparing a meal for the family, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of the world to your table.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Beef Stir-fry with Couscous. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, visiting a bustling market in a small village in Morocco with my parents. The aroma of spices filled the air as we navigated through the narrow streets lined with vendors selling an array of fruits, vegetables, and meats.

As we passed by a stall selling freshly butchered beef, I noticed a woman preparing a delicious looking stir-fry. She was expertly tossing strips of beef with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a medley of spices in a large wok over a roaring fire. The tantalizing smell wafted towards me, making my mouth water.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and watched intently as she cooked. She noticed my interest and smiled warmly, inviting me to learn how to make the dish. I eagerly accepted her offer and she patiently guided me through the steps, explaining the importance of balancing flavors and textures in a stir-fry.

After adding a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, she served the dish over a bed of fluffy couscous, a staple in Moroccan cuisine. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and fragrant spices was a revelation to my taste buds. I savored every bite, marveling at the harmony of flavors in the dish.

From that moment on, I was hooked on the art of stir-frying and the versatility of couscous. I returned to the market whenever I could, eager to learn more about the culinary traditions of Morocco. I sought out different vendors and home cooks, gathering recipes and techniques that would eventually become a part of my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I refined the recipe for Beef Stir-fry with Couscous, adding my own twists and variations to suit my taste. I experimented with different cuts of beef, from tenderloin to flank steak, and played around with a myriad of vegetables, from broccoli to snow peas. I perfected the balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, using a combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger to create a tantalizing marinade for the beef.

One summer, I hosted a dinner party for friends and family, serving my Beef Stir-fry with Couscous as the main course. The dish was met with rave reviews, with everyone clamoring for seconds and asking for the recipe. I beamed with pride as I shared the story of how I learned to make the dish in a bustling market in Morocco, passing on the tradition to a new generation of cooks.

As the years went by, I continued to make Beef Stir-fry with Couscous for special occasions and family gatherings, each time adding a new twist or ingredient to keep things fresh and exciting. The dish became a beloved favorite among my loved ones, a symbol of the culinary adventures and memories I had accumulated over the years.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aromas of sizzling beef and fragrant spices, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the woman who first introduced me to the joys of stir-frying. Her generosity and patience set me on a path of culinary discovery that would shape my love for cooking and sharing delicious meals with others.

I may have learned the recipe for Beef Stir-fry with Couscous from a stranger in a far-off market, but the dish has since become a cherished part of my own culinary legacy. And as I serve it to my own grandchildren, I hope to inspire them to embrace new flavors, explore different cuisines, and create lasting memories in the kitchen, just as I have done throughout my life.