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1. **Prepare the Beef**: Slice the beef thinly against the grain into bite-sized strips. This will ensure the meat is tender and easy to eat.
2. **Prep the Asparagus**: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut the spears into 2-inch pieces. Make sure the pieces are evenly sized to cook uniformly.
4. **Cook the Beef**: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced beef to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
5. **Cook the Asparagus**: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the asparagus and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the asparagus is bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. If you prefer your asparagus softer, cook for an extra 1-2 minutes.
7. **Combine the Beef and Sauce**: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the top. Stir everything together until the beef and asparagus are evenly coated with the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
9. **Serve**: Serve the garlic beef and asparagus stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired.
– **Balanced and Nutritious**: This dish is a great example of a balanced meal. The lean beef provides protein, while the asparagus is full of vitamins and fiber. Plus, the stir-frying method keeps the vegetables crisp, preserving their nutrients.
– **Simple Yet Flavorful**: Despite using just a handful of ingredients, the combination of garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a rich and savory sauce that takes the dish to another level. The sweetness from the honey or brown sugar rounds out the flavors, making every bite satisfying.
– **Versatile**: If you don’t have asparagus on hand, you can easily swap it for other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. You can also make this recipe with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein source.
### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Noodles**: You can also serve this dish over noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a hearty meal.
– **Garnishes**: Top the stir-fry with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
### **Tips for the Best Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry**
1. **Slice the Beef Thinly**: To ensure the beef is tender, slice it thinly against the grain. This will also help it cook quickly and evenly.
2. **Don’t Overcook the Asparagus**: Asparagus cooks quickly, and you want to maintain its crispness and vibrant color. Be sure to stir-fry it just until it’s tender but still firm.
3. **Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking**: Feel free to adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce. If you like it sweeter, add more honey or brown sugar. If you prefer a saltier flavor, add more soy sauce.
4. **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or snow peas to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
5. **Make It Spicy**: If you enjoy heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes or even a sliced chili pepper to spice up the stir-fry.
### **Conclusion**
**Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry** is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its tender beef, fresh asparagus, and savory garlic sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this stir-fry is a great way to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
