sweet and sour beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best sweet and sour beef recipe

I’ve been making sweet and sour beef for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish originated in China, but it’s become a staple in American cuisine.

It’s easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. The key to this recipe is the balance of sweet and sour flavors, which is achieved through the combination of sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce.

The result is a dish that’s both tangy and savory, with a thick and syrupy sauce that coats the beef perfectly. I love serving this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or rice to balance out the richness of the sauce.

My kids adore this recipe because it’s fun to eat with chopsticks, and they love helping me prepare the ingredients. As for me, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – it can be served at family gatherings, picnics, or even as a weeknight dinner.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other meat-based dishes, thanks to the abundance of vegetables and lean beef used in the recipe.

Sweet and Sour Beef

4.6 from 986 votes

Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and pineapple in a tangy sweet and sour sauce. This classic Chinese-inspired dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

For the Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup pineapple juice

For Stir-Fry

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 green onions, sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper.
2Toss well to coat and let marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
3In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and pineapple juice until smooth.
4Set the sauce mixture aside.
5Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering.
6Add the beef in a single layer and cook without stirring for 1 minute, then stir-fry for 2 minutes until browned and cooked through.
7Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
8Reduce heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
9Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for 2 minutes until they begin to soften and develop slight char marks.
10Add the pineapple chunks, garlic, and ginger, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
11Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and bring to a boil over high heat.
12Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
13Return the cooked beef to the wok and toss everything together until the beef is evenly coated with the sauce.
14Cook for 30 seconds to reheat the beef.
15Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice.

🔧Equipment

Large wok or skillet
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a milder sauce, reduce the rice vinegar to 3 tablespoons. If using canned pineapple, drain well and reserve the juice for the sauce. To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Watch Video Of How Sweet and Sour Beef Works

To store leftover sweet and sour beef, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to bring back the sauce’s consistency.

I like to serve leftovers over fresh rice or noodles, and it works great for a quick lunch or a casual family dinner. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to double for a crowd and the bright flavors please everyone from kids to grandparents.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Sour Beef

Q: What type of beef should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a lean cut of beef such as sirloin or round. This will help keep the dish relatively healthy while still providing plenty of flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by preparing the ingredients up to a day ahead of time. Simply store them in separate containers until you’re ready to assemble and cook the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, make sure to stir it frequently while it’s cooking on the stovetop. You can also add a little more vinegar or soy sauce if you find it too thick.

Q: Can I substitute chicken for beef in this recipe?

No, I would not recommend substituting chicken for beef in this recipe. The flavor profile of chicken would alter the overall taste of the dish significantly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

This recipe is relatively low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for many special diets. However, if you have any specific dietary restrictions or preferences, please consult with your healthcare provider before consuming any new foods.

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