Crispy Beef Stir Fry with Snow Peas

Name: Crispy Beef Stir Fry with Snow Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 cups snow peas, trimmed; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I always find myself craving a quick yet satisfying meal, and this Crispy Beef Stir Fry with Snow Peas hits the spot every time. The combination of tender beef, crunchy snow peas, and a savory sauce is a winning one. I love how easily this dish comes together—it almost feels like a culinary magic trick! With just a few fresh ingredients and a hot wok, I can whip up something that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to have a colorful and nutritious meal on the table in no time.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-30T21:22:27.460Z

When I first tried making stir fry at home, I was amazed at how quickly everything cooked up. What I discovered was that prepped ingredients and a hot wok are key to achieving that perfect crispy texture. Using thinly sliced beef ensures it cooks evenly and quickly, which is essential for stir fry. Each bite packed with flavor keeps me coming back for more.

In addition to the beef, snow peas lend a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish. I’ve learned to toss them in briefly, so they remain crisp and bright. This balance of textures really elevates the dish and makes it visually appealing on the plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals
Crisp-tender snow peas add a refreshing crunch
Flavor-packed sauce that brings everything together

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stir fry is undoubtedly the flank steak. It’s favored for its rich flavor and ability to absorb marinades beautifully, making it tender when sliced against the grain. Always aim for consistent, thin slices; a sharp knife is essential for achieving this. A good tip is to slightly freeze the steak for about 15 minutes before slicing—this makes it much easier to handle and cut evenly.

Snow peas not only provide a refreshing crunch but also bring vibrant color and sweetness to the dish. When selecting snow peas, look for bright green pods that are crisp and firm, avoiding any that are yellowing or limp. This vegetable cooks quickly, maintaining a crisp texture, which is ideal for stir-frying. If you cannot find snow peas, snap peas or green beans can serve as suitable substitutes.

Perfecting Your Techniques

Stir frying is all about high heat and speed. When cooking the vegetables, make sure your wok is smoking before adding them to achieve that perfect blistered effect. Stir fry for just 2-3 minutes—overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables. After removing them, allow the wok to return to high heat before adding the beef, ensuring it sears properly and forms a crispy crust.

One common issue in stir frying is steaming instead of frying. Avoid overcrowding the wok; if you're making a larger batch, consider cooking in two separate batches. This helps to keep the heat consistent, allowing for even cooking and that desired char that enhances flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious stir fry!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 cups snow peas, trimmed
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Having everything prepped ahead of time makes cooking much smoother!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect stir fry!

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you chop the vegetables.

Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and ginger, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Remove them from the wok and set aside.

Stir Fry the Beef

Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Increase the heat and add the marinated beef. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy.

Combine Everything

Return the vegetables to the wok and add the snow peas. Pour in the oyster sauce and stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Don't forget to enjoy your creation with family or friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil at the end. Adjust the amount of soy sauce based on your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Crispy Beef Stir Fry makes an excellent meal prep option. After cooking, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reclaim the stir-fry’s signature crisp texture when reheating, briefly pan-sear it in a hot skillet instead of microwaving.

Pair the stir fry with fluffy jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top adds an appealing crunch and visual appeal. For a bit of heat, consider drizzling with sriracha or serving with a side of spicy kimchi.

Ingredient Customization

Feel free to customize the veggies in this recipe based on what you have on hand. Broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or bell peppers can easily be substituted while still achieving a colorful and nutritious dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as denser vegetables like carrots may require a little longer in the wok.

If you're looking for a lower-sodium alternative, tamari or coconut aminos can be used instead of soy sauce. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, check that your oyster sauce is labeled as gluten-free or consider using a homemade version with mushrooms to replicate the umami flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots work beautifully in this stir fry.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

→ How can I make the beef more tender?

Slicing against the grain and marinating it with cornstarch helps keep it tender during cooking.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While stir fry is best fresh, you can prep all ingredients and store them in the fridge for a day before cooking.