Spicy beef stir-fry with vibrant vegetables served in a dark bowl

Beef stir fry

spicy beef stir fry with chili paste

By:

GuideMyRecipe

Published:

10 Sept 2025

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I remember the first time I tried making a stir-fry. It was a complete disaster! The veggies were soggy, the meat was tough, and the sauce? Well, let's just say it tasted like something you'd find at the bottom of a forgotten takeout container. But, instead of giving up, I was determined to master this simple yet elusive dish. After countless attempts, tweaks, and a healthy dose of frustration, I've finally cracked the code! This Spicy Beef Stir-Fry is a testament to persistence and a love for bold flavors. I think what helped me most was finding a really good chili paste, the type that makes your nose run a little.
Close-up shot of a wok with beef stir-frying and vegetables in a kitchen
This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients into a pan; it's about layering flavors, understanding textures, and creating a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more. I'm not saying it's rocket science, but there's definitely an art to it. We're talking tender, juicy beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and a fiery chili sauce that packs a serious punch. What really takes this dish over the top is using high-quality chili paste. Seriously, don't skimp on this! I’ve tried many, and some are just bland and oily. Look for one with a good depth of flavor and a noticeable kick. You won't regret it!
Overhead shot of a spicy beef stir-fry in a bowl, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions

Required Equipments

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Spicy Beef Stir Fry with Chili Paste: Frequently Asked Questions

Spicy Beef Stir Fry with Chili Paste

This Spicy Beef Stir-Fry with Chili Paste recipe delivers a flavorful and quick meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Tender beef slices are tossed with crisp vegetables in a fiery chili sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and exciting to the palate.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 2 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by slicing 1 pound of beef sirloin into thin strips. It’s easier to slice if the beef is partially frozen, kinda like when you make jerky. Trust me on this one. Also, chop your vegetables: 1 bell pepper (any color), 1 onion, and 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Don't forget to measure out your sauce ingredients!
  2. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef strips with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the beef and gives it a nice flavor base.
  3. Heat the Wok or Pan: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Make sure the pan is screaming hot before adding the beef – this will help it sear properly and prevent it from steaming.
  4. Sear the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it's browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
  5. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until they are crisp-tender. I like my veggies to have a little bite to them, but if you prefer them softer, cook them a bit longer.
  6. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of chili paste (gochujang is my favorite!), 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Adjust the chili paste according to your spice preference. If you're sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.
  7. Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through. Make sure everything is evenly coated with that delicious sauce.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Spicy Beef Stir-Fry hot, over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. And there you have it! A delicious, restaurant-quality stir-fry that you made in your own kitchen.

📝 Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a splash of oyster sauce to the sauce mixture.
  • Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snow peas.
  • If you don't have rice vinegar, you can use white vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal

Protein: 35 g

Fat: 22 g

Carbohydrates: 25 g

Fiber: 4 g

Calcium: 50 mg

Spice is a celebration of flavor; a dance of ingredients that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul. Don't be scared to experiment, every great dish starts with a daring leap!

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