This savory beef and potato stir fry combines perfectly marinated tender beef strips with golden potatoes in a rich, umami-packed sauce. The dish showcases the art of Chinese stir-frying techniques, creating a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. The secret lies in properly marinating the beef and achieving the perfect balance of soy sauce, aromatics, and timing.
Ingredients (Serves 2-4)
For the Potatoes:
- 435g (15.34 oz) potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 120g (4.23 oz) onion, sliced
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon sugar
- 125ml (1/2 cup) water
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks green onion, chopped
For the Beef Marinade:
- 225g (7.94 oz) beef (sirloin or flank steak), sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 teaspoons water
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 1/4 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 60ml (1/4 cup) water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cornstarch Slurry:
- 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
- 60ml (1/4 cup) water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase (15 minutes)
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables Peel and slice potatoes into 1cm thick rounds. Cut the onion into thick slices and mince the garlic cloves. Chop green onions, separating white and green parts. Set all vegetables aside in separate bowls.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef Slice beef thinly against the grain into strips about 5cm long. In a bowl, combine beef with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and baking soda. Mix thoroughly with your hands. Add water and cornstarch, mixing until the beef is well-coated. Finally, add oil and mix once more. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce and Slurry Mix all stir fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl. In another small bowl, whisk cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Set both aside.
Cooking Phase (12-15 minutes)
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add potato slices, salt, and sugar. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until potatoes begin to brown slightly. Add water, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Remove potatoes and onions to a plate.
Step 5: Stir Fry the Beef Increase heat to high. Add more oil if needed. Add marinated beef in a single layer, allowing it to sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring. Then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until beef is nearly cooked through and beautifully browned.
Step 6: Combine and Finish Add minced garlic to the beef and stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic. Return cooked potatoes and onions to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir constantly for 30 seconds until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.
Step 7: Final Touches Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle with chopped green onions and black pepper. Toss once more and serve immediately while hot.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Iron: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 25% DV
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives
Replace beef with thinly sliced pork shoulder, chicken thigh, or firm tofu for different flavor profiles. Lamb works exceptionally well with the same marinade technique.
Vegetable Modifications
Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the potato cooking stage. Baby potatoes can be used whole instead of sliced regular potatoes, though cooking time may increase slightly.
Sauce Variations
For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or fresh sliced chilies with the garlic. A tablespoon of oyster sauce can deepen the umami flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
For gluten-free preparation, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free. Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce alternatives.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
The key to tender beef lies in the baking soda marinade, which breaks down tough fibers. Don’t skip this crucial step. Ensure your wok or pan is properly heated before adding ingredients, as high heat is essential for authentic stir-fry texture and flavor development.
Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pan which can lead to steaming rather than proper stir-frying. The cornstarch slurry should be added at the very end to prevent the sauce from becoming gummy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this beef and potato stir fry ahead of time? While best served immediately, you can marinate the beef up to 4 hours in advance and prep all vegetables. The cooked dish can be refrigerated for 2 days and reheated in a hot wok with a splash of water.
Why is my beef tough even after marinating? Ensure you’re slicing against the grain and using the correct cut of beef. Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye work best. Overcooking can also toughen the meat, so stir-fry quickly over high heat.
Can I make this recipe without dark soy sauce? Yes, though you’ll lose some color and depth. Replace dark soy sauce with regular soy sauce and add a pinch of brown sugar for color. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to get crispy potatoes in this stir fry? Pat potatoes completely dry before cooking and ensure your oil is hot. Don’t move them too frequently during the initial browning phase. Using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold helps maintain shape while developing a golden exterior.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too salty? Taste your soy sauce first, as sodium levels vary by brand. Start with less soy sauce and adjust gradually. Adding a bit more sugar can help balance excessive saltiness, and ensure you’re not over-reducing the sauce which concentrates flavors.
This beef and potato stir fry delivers restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen, combining traditional Chinese cooking techniques with accessible ingredients to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.