We’ve all fallen for the irresistible sweet and spicy kick of General Tso dishes, and our General Tso Beef Recipe puts a hearty twist on the classic. Inspired by the bold flavors of Chinese-American cuisine, this beef version swaps in tender strips for the traditional chicken, delivering a satisfying stir-fry that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
What we love most is how easy it is to whip up at home, letting you enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the wait. With our simple steps, you’ll create a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
In our General Tso Beef recipe, we start with fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring bold flavors and tender textures to this Chinese-American favorite. We’ve organized the list below in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision.
- Beef: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness, ensuring it absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Marinade Components: 2 tablespoons soy sauce, low-sodium for balance; 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed into a slurry to coat the beef and create a crispy exterior when stir-fried.
- Aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, minced for a pungent kick; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated to add zesty warmth right at the start of cooking.
- Sauce Ingredients: ¼ cup hoisin sauce for sweet umami; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar for tangy brightness; 1 tablespoon brown sugar to enhance caramelized notes; ½ cup chicken broth for a silky consistency.
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips for crunch and color; 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces to add freshness and nutrients.
- Finishing Touches: 2 green onions, chopped for a garnish that provides a mild onion flavor; 1 teaspoon sesame oil, drizzled at the end for nutty aroma; and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying to achieve that perfect sear.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our General Tso Beef recipe to life after gathering the fresh ingredients, we rely on a selection of essential tools that ensure precise preparation and optimal stir-frying results. These items help us achieve tender beef strips coated in that bold, tangy sauce with minimal effort.
- A wok or large skillet for high-heat stir-frying, allowing even cooking and that signature smoky flavor.
- A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board to slice the flank steak and vegetables into uniform pieces, promoting even marinating and cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning ingredients like soy sauce and cornstarch, guaranteeing balanced flavors every time.
- At least two mixing bowls—one for the beef marinade and another for combining sauce elements like hoisin sauce and rice vinegar—to keep our workflow organized.
- A wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for tossing and stirring the beef and vegetables, preventing sticking and ensuring everything cooks uniformly.
- Optionally, a garlic press or fine grater to quickly prepare aromatics such as garlic and ginger, enhancing their release of flavors into the dish.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the cooking process.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients and essential tools prepared, let’s walk through the steps to create our flavorful General Tso Beef. We’ll use simple, active techniques to ensure tender beef and bold, tangy flavors in every bite.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we gather and prep our ingredients for efficiency. Begin by slicing 1 lb of flank steak into thin, uniform strips about 1/4 inch thick—this ensures even cooking and tender results. Next, mince 4 cloves of garlic and 2 inches of fresh ginger for aromatic punch, then chop 1 red bell pepper and 1 cup of broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces to add crisp texture and vibrant color. Finally, slice 2 green onions for garnish, keeping the whites and greens separate to enhance presentation and flavor layering.
Marinate the Beef
We marinate the beef to infuse it with savory depth and achieve that signature tender bite. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, whisking until smooth. Add the sliced beef strips to the mixture, tossing thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption—this step locks in moisture and enhances the beef’s succulence.
Cook the Beef
With the beef marinated, we move to high-heat stir-frying to sear in juices and create a caramelized exterior. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and releases a fragrant sizzle. Add the marinated beef strips in a single layer, stirring constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a golden brown and release enticing, smoky aromas. Remove the beef from the wok and set it aside, ensuring it’s cooked to a juicy medium-rare for optimal tenderness.
Make the Sauce
While the beef rests, we whip up a glossy sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes central to General Tso’s appeal. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, and 1/4 cup of chicken broth, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture forms a smooth, glossy liquid. This sauce delivers a bold flavor profile that coats the beef perfectly, elevating the dish with its rich, multifaceted taste.
Combine and Serve
To bring everything together, we reunite the components for a harmonious stir-fry bursting with flavors and textures. Return the cooked beef to the hot wok, add the chopped red bell pepper and broccoli florets, and pour in the prepared sauce, stirring vigorously for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables brighten and the sauce thickens to a sticky glaze. Finally, toss in the sliced green onion whites for extra crunch, then garnish with the greens and a drizzle of sesame oil for a fresh finish. Serve immediately over steamed rice to enjoy the dish’s vibrant colors, tender beef, and irresistible savory-sweet heat.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our General Tso Beef recipe even more convenient, we recommend preparing certain components in advance. This approach not only saves time during busy weeknights but also enhances the bold flavors and tender textures of the dish. Below, we outline the key steps for make-ahead preparation, ensuring your stir-fry comes together seamlessly when you’re ready to cook.
Preparing the Beef Marinade
We can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. Start by slicing 1 lb of flank steak into thin strips as directed in our earlier steps. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger. Add the beef strips to the mixture, toss to coat evenly, and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This step infuses the beef with savory notes, making it more tender and flavorful when stir-fried.
Prepping the Vegetables and Aromatics
Chop and prepare vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. We suggest cutting 1 red bell pepper into strips and 1 cup broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces up to 1 day in advance. Mince 3 cloves garlic and 1 tablespoon ginger, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their crispness and vibrant colors, place the vegetables in a sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This preparation keeps the stir-fry fresh and visually appealing, ready for high-heat cooking.
Making the Sauce in Advance
Our General Tso sauce can be mixed and stored ahead to develop even richer, tangy-spicy undertones. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon chili paste, and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Transfer the mixture to a jar or sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, simply give it a quick stir to recombine. This make-ahead technique ensures the sauce coats the beef perfectly, balancing sweet and spicy elements for an authentic taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For optimal results, store make-ahead components in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Use the following guidelines in a markdown table to track preparation times and storage durations:
| Component | Preparation Time | Storage Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Beef | 30 minutes to 24 hours | Up to 24 hours in fridge | Stir-fry directly from fridge; cook 2-3 minutes longer if chilled |
| Chopped Vegetables | 10-15 minutes | Up to 24 hours in fridge | Add to wok as is; no need to thaw |
| Sauce Mixture | 5 minutes | Up to 3 days in fridge | Stir well before use; heat in pan for 1-2 minutes |
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure that our General Tso Beef remains a quick, delicious option for any meal.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our General Tso Beef recipe with us.
It’s a fantastic way to bring bold Chinese-American flavors into your kitchen effortlessly.
Give it a try and make it your own for memorable meals every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is General Tso Beef?
General Tso Beef is a flavorful twist on the classic Chinese-American dish, using tender beef strips instead of chicken. It features bold, sweet-spicy flavors in a quick stir-fry, making it easy to prepare at home for a restaurant-quality meal over rice.
What ingredients are needed for General Tso Beef?
You’ll need 1 lb of flank steak, soy sauce and cornstarch for marinating, garlic, ginger, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar for the sauce, and veggies like red bell pepper and broccoli. Fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure tender textures and vibrant flavors—aim for about 10-15 minutes of prep time.
What tools are required to make General Tso Beef?
A wok or large skillet is essential for high-heat stir-frying, along with a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and mixing bowls for marinades. A wooden spoon or spatula helps with even cooking; optional tools like a garlic press add convenience.
How do I prepare General Tso Beef?
Start by slicing and marinating the flank steak for flavor. Stir-fry it until golden, then add garlic, ginger, veggies, and a glossy sauce made from hoisin, rice vinegar, and more. Combine everything for a vibrant dish, and serve over steamed rice—it takes about 20-30 minutes total.
Can I make General Tso Beef ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, prep veggies and aromatics a day ahead, and mix the sauce early for deeper flavors. Store components in the fridge for up to 24 hours and reheat gently to keep textures tender, making weeknight meals easier.