Tangy Citrus Beef Stir-Fry
Need a punch of citrus to wake up your dinner? This 20-minute stir-fry hits the spot.
When you've had a long day and just want something that feels substantial but won't keep you in the kitchen forever, this Tangy Citrus Beef Stir-Fry is your secret weapon. It combines tender strips of beef with a vibrant, citrus-forward sauce that cuts through the richness perfectly. The magic happens in one pan, meaning less cleanup for you tonight. You can expect a savory depth from the ginger and garlic, rounded out by a bright pop of acidity that makes every bite feel fresh. It’s designed for those nights when you want 'real' food without the long prep list or the mountain of dishes afterward.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak — thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tsp fresh ginger — minced
- 3 unit garlic — minced
- 0.5 cup orange juice — freshly squeezed is best
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Method
- 1 In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes.
- 2 Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and sear until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove beef and set aside.
- 3 In the same pan, add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4 Toss in the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- 5 Add the beef back into the pan along with the sauce mixture. Stir constantly for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
- 6 Drizzle with sesame oil before serving over rice or noodles.
Variations
- Veggie Power Swap — Replace the beef with extra-firm tofu cubes or a handful of edamame for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Extra Zesty — Swap the orange juice for lime juice and add a teaspoon of grated ginger for an even sharper kick.
Notes
To ensure the beef stays tender, make sure to slice it across the grain and sear it quickly before adding the vegetables and sauce.
Equipment that helps
- Large Skillet — Allows you to sear the meat and sauté the veggies in one go to save time.
- Whisk — Ensures the cornstarch is fully incorporated into the sauce for a smooth glaze.
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