Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect balance of crispy, tender beef and fresh zucchini, drenched in a irresistibly sticky sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This Asian-inspired recipe is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Wash the zucchinis and slice them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce and honey. Mix well until the honey is fully dissolved in the soy sauce. This will be your marinade and sauce for the beef.
- Place the sliced beef into the bowl with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor.
- While the beef is marinating, prepare the zucchinis. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced zucchinis and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the beef. Toss to coat the beef slices evenly with cornstarch.
- Increase the heat to high and add the beef to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring to achieve a crispy texture. Once the bottom is browned, stir-fry the beef for another 2-3 minutes until it is cooked through and crispy on all sides.
- Return the cooked zucchinis to the skillet with the beef. Pour the remaining marinade over the beef and zucchinis, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the crispy sticky beef zucchini hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Asian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Slice Against the Grain: Always slice your beef against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and easier chewing.
- Cornstarch is Key: The cornstarch coating is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy exterior. Make sure to coat the beef evenly and use a hot skillet for the best results.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the beef, work in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a perfect crispy sear.
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 10 minutes is the minimum, marinating the beef for up to 30 minutes will intensify the flavor profile.
- Keep Zucchini Crisp: Be careful not to overcook the zucchini - you want them tender but still with a slight crunch.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Use high heat for the final cooking stages to get that perfect crispy texture and caramelization.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
