Chinese cuisine

Introduction:

Marinated beef, also known as cold sliced beef, is a classic Chinese dish that has been enjoyed by people for centuries. It is a perfect combination of tender, flavorful beef slices marinated in a spicy and aromatic sauce. In this article, I will share with you a detailed recipe for making delicious and spicy marinated beef at home. This dish is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and aroma, making it a great addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients:

1. Beef: 500 grams (preferably tenderloin or sirloin)
2. Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
3. Ginger: 20 grams, grated
4. Red pepper flakes: 2 tablespoons
5. Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
6. Hoisin sauce: 2 tablespoons
7. Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
8. Sugar: 1 teaspoon
9. Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
10. Salt: to taste
11. Black pepper: to taste
12. Green onions: 2-3, chopped (for garnish)
13. Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
First, you need to choose the right cut of beef for this dish. Tenderloin or sirloin are ideal as they are both tender and have a good flavor. Trim the beef of any excess fat and cut it into thin strips or slices, about 0.5 cm thick. Place the beef in a large mixing bowl and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinating Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the flavors are fully integrated.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Pour the sauce over the beef and toss to coat evenly. Make sure all the slices are covered with the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. The longer the beef marinates, the more flavor it will absorb.

Step 4: Cook the Beef
When you’re ready to cook the beef, take it out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and spread it out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook as it may become tough.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the beef is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate and let it cool down to room temperature. This is crucial for the traditional “cold” aspect of the dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). You can also add some fresh cilantro or mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Dish!
Your spicy and tasty marinated beef is now ready to serve! This dish is typically enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with rice, noodles, or even as a sandwich filling. The flavors of the sauce are so rich and flavorful that they will leave you wanting more!

Variations and Tips:

1. If you prefer less spicy, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or substitute them with less spicy peppers like bell peppers or jalapeño peppers.
2. You can also add other seasonings such as star anise, cinnamon sticks, or bay leaves to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. However, these should be removed before serving as they can be too strong for some tastes.
3. Instead of using soy sauce and hoisin sauce, you can use a pre-made chili sauce or Sriracha sauce for a more intense spicy flavor.
4. For a more visually appealing presentation, you can use a colorful plate or serve the beef on top of a bed of shredded vegetables like cucumber or carrot sticks.
5. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and they will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving again as it may become dry when reheated from cold storage.
6. This recipe can also be easily scaled up or down depending on how many people you’re serving or how much beef you have available in your kitchen!
7. Experiment with different cuts of beef such as flank steak or rump steak to see which one you prefer for this dish! Each cut has its own unique texture and flavor profile that can change the overall taste of your dish!
   8 Finally remember that cooking is an art form that requires practice and patience! Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different ingredients until you find what works best for your taste buds! Happy cooking!