Orange Beef and Beans Recipe
Green beans are one of my all-time favorite vegetables—I can cook them more ways than ground beef, and this dish showcases them beautifully. Orange juice adds zesty flavor to the sirloin steak and garden-fresh beans.
Green beans are one of my all-time favorite vegetables—I can cook them more ways than ground beef, and this dish showcases them beautifully. Orange juice adds zesty flavor to the sirloin steak and garden-fresh beans.
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 3/4 pound beef top sirloin steak cut into thin strips
- 3 cups cut fresh green beans cut into 2-inch pieces
- Carbohydrate 2.44055641838613 g
- Cholesterol 39.97282760625 mg
- Fat 14.3571952464907 g
- Fiber 0.275250816825217 g
- Protein 18.0966284548926 g
- Saturated Fat 4.62680517689259 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (121g)
- Sodium 2162.57665891223 mg
- Sugar 2.16530560156092 g
- Trans Fat 1.4732684449451 g
- Calories 215 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine sugar and orange peel; add beef. Seal bag; toss to coat.
- In a large nonstick skillet, stir-fry beef in oil for 5 minutes or until browned.
- In a microwave-safe dish, cover and cook beans in water for 3-5 minutes on high; drain. Add beans to skillet; cook, stirring constantly, until tender.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, ginger and pepper. stir in the soy sauce and orange juice until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over beef and beans; toss to coat. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
Orange Beef and Beans: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meal
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Orange Beef and Beans recipe has become a staple in our household, a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying. It's ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. The vibrant orange sauce is incredibly addictive, coating tender beef strips and crisp-tender green beans. It’s a dish that’s both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a casual weeknight meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The marinade, a simple combination of sugar and orange zest, tenderizes the beef beautifully. The stir-fry technique ensures the beef remains juicy and flavorful, while the green beans retain their satisfying crunch. The orange sauce, a luscious blend of orange juice, soy sauce, cornstarch, and ginger, brings everything together perfectly. It's a harmonious balance of sweet and savory, tangy and warm, making it incredibly moreish. I often find myself going back for seconds!
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of beans – snap peas, snow peas, or even edamame would work beautifully. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also adjust the amount of soy sauce to suit your taste preferences. The recipe is very forgiving, allowing you to adapt it to whatever you have on hand. It's also a great way to use up leftover cooked beef or chicken, making it even more convenient.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Orange Beef and Beans recipe is also a nutritious and balanced meal. It provides a good source of protein from the beef, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the green beans. It’s a great way to sneak some extra vegetables into your family's diet, especially for picky eaters. The bright, vibrant colors of the dish are also appealing, making it a visually pleasing meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. I often serve it with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
This isn't just a quick dinner recipe; it's a gateway to exploring the delicious world of stir-fries. Once you've mastered this recipe, you can experiment with various protein sources and vegetables, creating your own unique flavor combinations. The possibilities are truly endless! So, if you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, give this Orange Beef and Beans recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- For a thicker sauce: Use a little more cornstarch.
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with firm tofu or tempeh.
- Serve with: Brown rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
This Orange Beef and Beans recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. It’s a recipe that's as versatile as it is delicious, a perfect embodiment of the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
