Orange Ginger Beef

Orange Ginger Beef Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orange Ginger Beef is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of oranges with the spicy kick of ginger. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and enjoy a good stir-fry.

History

The combination of orange and ginger in cooking has been around for centuries, with both ingredients being used in various cuisines around the world. This particular recipe takes inspiration from Asian cuisine, where the pairing of citrus fruits and aromatic spices is common.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) sirloin steaks, approximately 0.75 inch thick
5 carrots, peeled
2 oranges
0.5 cup oyster sauce
3 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp sherry wine
1 tbsp cornstarch
0.5 tsp hot pepper sauce
4 tsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp minced gingerroot
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cup sugar snap peas or snow peas, trimmed

How to prepare

Trim the fat from the steak.
Slice the steak across the grain into strips that are 0.13 inches thick; then cut the strips into 2-inch lengths.
Cut the carrots into pieces that are 0.25 inches in size.
Using a zester, peel the rind of the oranges into long, narrow strips.
Squeeze the oranges to obtain 0.33 cup of juice.
Whisk together half of the orange rind, the orange juice, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sherry, cornstarch, and pepper sauce.
In a bowl, combine the beef with 2 tbsp of the sauce and let it stand for 20 minutes.
In a wok, heat half of the oil over high heat; stir-fry the beef in batches for 1-2 minutes or until it is browned but still pink inside.
Transfer the beef to a plate.
Add the remaining oil, ginger, and garlic to the wok.
Stir-fry over medium-high heat for 30 seconds or until golden brown.
Add the carrots and 0.25 cup of water.
Cover and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Meanwhile, halve the snow peas diagonally.
Stir the snow peas into the wok with the beef and the remaining sauce; bring to a boil and cook uncovered for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Top with the remaining orange rind.

Variations

Substitute chicken or tofu for the beef for a different protein option.
Add bell peppers or broccoli for extra vegetables.
Use pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a tropical twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.

- Marinating the beef in the sauce helps to infuse it with flavor.

- Stir-fry the beef in batches to ensure even cooking.

- Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Orange Ginger Beef can be served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the main cooking technique used in this recipe, which involves cooking ingredients quickly over high heat in a wok or skillet.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute orange zest for the orange rind if needed.

- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the beef in the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This can help to save time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Orange Ginger Beef in a colorful bowl or plate, garnished with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Orange Ginger Beef pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad can also complement this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Orange Ginger Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Orange Ginger Beef contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Orange Ginger Beef contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Orange Ginger Beef contains approximately 12 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

Orange Ginger Beef contains approximately 30 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange Ginger Beef is rich in vitamin C from the oranges and vitamin A from the carrots. It also contains iron and potassium from the beef.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and oyster sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Orange Ginger Beef is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Orange Ginger Beef is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the tangy taste of oranges with the spicy kick of ginger. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy this dish with your favorite side dishes for a complete and delicious dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Orange Ginger Beef. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in the bustling city of Shanghai. My aunt was a talented cook, and she had learned this particular recipe from a renowned chef who had once cooked for the emperor himself.

I watched in awe as my aunt effortlessly prepared the ingredients, her hands moving with precision and grace. She explained each step to me, teaching me the importance of balance and harmony in Chinese cooking. The aroma of ginger and orange filled the kitchen, and I knew that this dish would be something truly special.

As I grew older, I found myself drawn to the art of cooking. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different flavors and techniques, trying to recreate the magic of that Orange Ginger Beef dish. I sought out recipes from friends and family, learning from each one and adding my own twist to make them my own.

One day, I came across a cookbook that featured a similar recipe for Orange Ginger Beef. Excited, I decided to try it out and see if it could rival my aunt's version. The ingredients were familiar - tender beef, fresh ginger, fragrant oranges - but the method was slightly different. I followed the instructions carefully, my hands moving with the same precision I had learned from my aunt all those years ago.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors that brought back memories of my childhood in Shanghai. The sweetness of the orange, the warmth of the ginger, and the tender beef all came together in perfect harmony, just like my aunt had taught me.

Since then, Orange Ginger Beef has become a staple in my own kitchen. I have cooked it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the sense of wonder I felt that first day in my aunt's kitchen, and I am grateful for the knowledge and love she passed on to me.

Now, as I sit here writing this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of the generations to come who will continue to enjoy this recipe. I hope that they, too, will feel the same sense of wonder and joy that I felt when I first saw the magic of Orange Ginger Beef come to life in my aunt's kitchen. And I hope that they will pass on the tradition of good food and good company, just as my aunt did for me.