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A sizzling plate of Kung Pao Beef with tender slices of beef, colorful diced bell peppers, and roasted peanuts, coated in a glossy savory-spicy sauce. Served over steamed rice and garnished with green onions.

kung pao beef recipe


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  • Author: Jennifer Relyea
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Enjoy a healthier take on Kung Pao Beef! Lean beef, fresh veggies, and a light yet flavorful sauce make this recipe both delicious and nutritious


Ingredients

Scale

Beef Marinade:

  • Flank steak (1½ pounds), thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine
  • 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
  • ⅛ teaspoon baking soda

Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons warm water (or beef stock)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn powder
  • ½ teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil

The Stir-Fry:

  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or canola)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 5 dried red chilies, deseeded
  • ½ cup bell pepper, diced
  • 2 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • ½ cup unsalted roasted peanuts

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Beef:

    • In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Sauce:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, chili flakes, and cornstarch. Set aside.

  3. Cook the Beef:

    • Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef and set aside.

  4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Veggies:

    • In the same wok, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add dried chilies (if using), garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

    • Add the diced bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

  5. Combine Everything:

    • Return the beef to the wok and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

    • Add the roasted peanuts and green onions. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is fully cooked.

  6. Serve:

    • Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes