Imagine a dish so tantalizing that it transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam with just one bite. Shaken Beef with Watercress is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines tender, perfectly seared beef with crisp, peppery watercress in a symphony of flavors that will revolutionize your home cooking. This quick and easy Vietnamese classic is about to become your new obsession, promising restaurant-quality results in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, cubed
- 2 cups watercress
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cube the beef sirloin into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Rinse the watercress thoroughly under cold water, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cubed beef with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for about 5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of oil (preferably vegetable or canola oil) to the pan, swirling it around to coat the surface.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- Next, add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 2 minutes to develop a nice crust. Then, stir-fry the beef for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the watercress to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the watercress is wilted but still vibrant in color. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shaken beef and watercress to serving plates. Serve immediately with steamed rice or as a standalone dish.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: Sirloin works best, but ensure it's high-quality and well-marbled for maximum tenderness.
- High heat is crucial: Use a cast-iron skillet or wok and make sure it's scorching hot before adding ingredients to achieve that perfect sear.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook beef in a single layer to ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Marinate briefly: 5 minutes is ideal to infuse flavor without breaking down the meat's texture.
- Watch your garlic: Sauté quickly to release flavor without burning, which can make the dish bitter.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to maintain the beef's juiciness and watercress's vibrant color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 483kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 59g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
