Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry

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### **Instructions for Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry:**

1. **Prepare the Beef:**
Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure that the beef stays tender while cooking. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. **Cook the Asparagus:**
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus pieces and stir-fry for about **3-4 minutes**, or until they are crisp-tender but still vibrant green. Remove the asparagus from the pan and set it aside.

3. **Stir-Fry the Beef:**
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for **2-3 minutes**, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook the beef in batches.

4. **Add the Garlic and Ginger:**
Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for **30 seconds to 1 minute**, or until fragrant. The garlic should be golden but not burnt.

5. **Add the Sauces:**
Stir in the **soy sauce**, **oyster sauce**, **hoisin sauce** (if using), and **rice vinegar**. Mix well to combine, allowing the sauce to coat the beef and begin to thicken slightly.

6. **Combine with Asparagus:**
Return the cooked asparagus to the pan and toss everything together until the beef and asparagus are well coated in the sauce. If you want some heat, sprinkle in the **red pepper flakes** at this point. Cook for an additional **2 minutes**, just to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**
Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter. Garnish with **sesame seeds** and **chopped green onions** for an added crunch and freshness. Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

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### **Tips for the Best Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry:**

– **Choose the Right Cut of Beef:** For a tender stir-fry, choose cuts like **sirloin**, **flank steak**, or **skirt steak**. These cuts are flavorful and become tender when thinly sliced.

– **Prep the Ingredients Ahead:** Stir-fries cook quickly, so it’s important to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Slice the beef, chop the garlic, and cut the asparagus in advance for an easy and fast cooking process.

– **Adjust the Sauce:** If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more **hoisin sauce**. For a saltier flavor, increase the amount of **soy sauce**. Feel free to tweak the sauce to match your taste preferences.

– **Make it Spicy:** For a spicy kick, add more **red pepper flakes** or a sliced fresh chili to the stir-fry.

– **Add Extra Veggies:** You can easily add other vegetables to this stir-fry, such as bell peppers, snow peas, mushrooms, or broccoli. Just make sure to cook them at the right time so they stay crisp-tender.

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### **Why This Dish is a Weeknight Winner:**

**Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry** is the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful, healthy, and satisfying. With minimal prep time, a simple cooking process, and the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

The combination of juicy, tender beef and crisp-tender asparagus makes each bite a delicious contrast in texture. Plus, the savory garlic sauce adds a rich depth of flavor that brings the entire dish together. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own, this stir-fry is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

For anyone looking to make healthy, delicious meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or time, **Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry** is the answer! Enjoy this flavorful, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknights to special family gatherings.