Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry
I still remember the first time I had a Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry from a Chinese restaurant near my home. The combination of tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and savory sauce was love at first bite. Since then, I've been on a mission to recreate that dish in my own kitchen. After countless attempts and tweaks, I'm excited to share my version of Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry with you.
This recipe is all about balance and harmony. The key to a great stir-fry is to cook each ingredient to its perfect doneness, then combine them in a way that creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. In this recipe, we'll use a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to create a rich and savory sauce that brings everything together.
One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even as a filling for lettuce wraps. It's also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
As we cook our way through this recipe, I'll share some tips and tricks I've learned along the way. From the importance of velveting the beef to the secret to making a great stir-fry sauce, I'll guide you through each step of the process. So let's get started and make a delicious Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry that's sure to become a favorite in your household!
Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a delicious and authentic Asian dish at home. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes
- It's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand
- The combination of beef, mushrooms, and savory sauce is a classic and delicious combination
- You can serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even as a filling for lettuce wraps
- It's a perfect weeknight dinner solution that's quick, easy, and flavorful
- You can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings
- It's a great way to introduce your family to new flavors and ingredients
Why This Recipe Works
The key to a great Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry is to cook each ingredient to its perfect doneness. This means cooking the beef until it's tender and juicy, the mushrooms until they're caramelized and fragrant, and the vegetables until they're crisp and colorful.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the sauce. A great stir-fry sauce should be balanced and harmonious, with a combination of salty, sweet, and umami flavors. In this recipe, we'll use a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to create a rich and savory sauce that brings everything together.
The technique of velveting the beef is also crucial in this recipe. Velveting involves marinating the beef in a mixture of cornstarch, egg whites, and seasonings, then cooking it in a hot wok or skillet. This helps to create a tender and smooth texture, while also adding flavor to the beef.
Finally, the importance of using high-quality ingredients cannot be overstated. Fresh mushrooms, tender beef, and fragrant scallions all contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. By using the best ingredients you can find, you'll be able to create a truly authentic and delicious Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making a great Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll want to use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients you can find, including tender beef, fresh mushrooms, and fragrant scallions.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to create a rich and savory sauce. We'll also be using cornstarch to thicken the sauce and add texture to the beef. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients and follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results.
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, sliced into thin stripsLook for beef that is tender and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. You can also use beef flank steak or beef ribeye if you prefer.
- 2 cups (120g) mixed mushrooms, slicedUse a combination of button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms for a variety of textures and flavors.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) soy sauceUse a high-quality soy sauce that is made from fermented soybeans and has a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) oyster sauceOyster sauce adds a deep, umami flavor to the dish. You can also use hoisin sauce or tamari if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame oilSesame oil has a distinct nutty flavor and is used to add depth and richness to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) grated fresh gingerFresh ginger adds a warm, spicy flavor to the dish. You can also use ground ginger if you prefer.
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarchCornstarch is used to thicken the sauce and add texture to the beef. You can also use tapioca starch or potato starch if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) vegetable oilUse a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or canola oil.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt if you prefer.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
- 2 scallions, choppedUse fresh scallions for the best flavor. You can also use green onions or shallots if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh cilantroUse fresh cilantro for the best flavor. You can also use parsley or basil if you prefer.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry
- 1In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to make the sauce. Set aside.
- 2In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat, making sure the beef is evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
- 3Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- 4In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- 5Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 6Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the beef and mushrooms are coated in the sauce.
- 7Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- 8Stir in the chopped scallions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until the scallions are slightly wilted.
- 9Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
- 10Let the stir-fry rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- 11Serve the Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with additional scallions and cilantro if desired.
- 12Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, making sure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145 F for medium-rare, 160 F for medium, and 170 F for well-done.
- 13Let the stir-fry cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing, making sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and textures.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh mushrooms and tender beef, for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the beef, as it can become tough and dry. Cook it to your desired level of doneness, using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Use a wok or large skillet with a non-stick surface to prevent the beef and mushrooms from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the beef and mushrooms from cooking evenly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Add aromatics like garlic and ginger towards the end of cooking, as they can burn and become bitter if cooked for too long.
- Use a variety of mushrooms for a range of textures and flavors. Button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
- Don't skip the step of letting the stir-fry rest, as this allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the recipe your own. Try adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, or using different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef, which can make it tough and dry.
- Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a lackluster flavor and texture.
- Not cooking the mushrooms long enough, which can leave them raw and crunchy.
- Not letting the stir-fry rest, which can prevent the flavors from melding together and the sauce from thickening.
- Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, which can result in undercooked or overcooked meat.
- Not stirring the stir-fry constantly, which can cause the ingredients to burn or stick to the skillet.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, to the stir-fry for added flavor and texture.
- Use different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a variation on the recipe.
- Try using different types of mushrooms, such as oyster or enoki, for a unique flavor and texture.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Use a variety of seasonings, such as soy sauce or hoisin sauce, to give the stir-fry a different flavor profile.
- Serve the stir-fry over noodles or rice, or use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos.
- Add a fried or poached egg on top of the stir-fry for added richness and protein.
What to Serve With Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry
Serve the Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with additional scallions and cilantro if desired. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos, or serve it as a side dish to your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Some other ideas for serving the stir-fry include:
Pairing it with a simple green salad or a bowl of steamed vegetables for a light and healthy meal.
Serving it with a side of pickled ginger or wasabi for added flavor and spice.
Using it as a topping for a bowl of noodle soup or a plate of steamed dumplings.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
The Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the stir-fry cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, simply thaw the stir-fry overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.
Some tips for storing and reheating the stir-fry include:
Letting it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing, to prevent the growth of bacteria and to preserve the flavors and textures.
Using an airtight container to store the stir-fry, to prevent moisture and other flavors from getting in and affecting the dish.
Reheating the stir-fry over low heat, stirring constantly, to prevent it from burning or sticking to the skillet.
Adding a splash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce to the stir-fry when reheating, to refresh the flavors and add moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of beef you like, but sirloin or flank steak work well. Look for beef that is tender and has a good balance of fat and lean meat.
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use any type of mushroom you like. Button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
To prevent the beef from becoming tough, cook it to your desired level of doneness, using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Don't overcook the beef, as it can become tough and dry.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the stir-fry, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it until you're ready to serve.
How do I reheat the stir-fry?
To reheat the stir-fry, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.
What can I serve with this recipe?
You can serve the Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles, or use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos. You can also pair it with a simple green salad or a bowl of steamed vegetables for a light and healthy meal.
Can I customize this recipe?
Yes, you can customize this recipe to your taste. Try adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, or using different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to give it a spicy kick if you prefer.

Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 2 cups (120g) mixed mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons (30g) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15g) oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15g) grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons (30g) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to make the sauce. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat, making sure the beef is evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the beef and mushrooms are coated in the sauce.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Stir in the chopped scallions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until the scallions are slightly wilted.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
- Let the stir-fry rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Beef And Mushroom Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with additional scallions and cilantro if desired.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, making sure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145 F for medium-rare, 160 F for medium, and 170 F for well-done.
- Let the stir-fry cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing, making sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and textures.