Asian > Chinese

Mala Beef Stir-Fry Sauce Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chili oil
- 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 pound beef, thinly sliced

Special equipment needed:
- Wok or large skillet

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and ginger.

2. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth.

3. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the sauce mixture to the wok and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.

5. Pour in the cornstarch mixture and stir-fry until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

6. Remove from heat and serve.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- High heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 35g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular vegetable oil can be used instead of chili oil.
- White vinegar can be used instead of rice vinegar.
- Chicken or pork can be used instead of beef.

Variations:
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of beef for a vegetarian option.

Tips and tricks:
- Toasting the Sichuan peppercorns before grinding them enhances their flavor.
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain for a more tender texture.
- Make sure the wok or skillet is hot before adding the beef to ensure a good sear.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the stir-fry on a bed of rice or noodles.
- Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro.

Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions or cilantro

Pairings:
- Steamed rice or noodles

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bok choy

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to thin it out.
- If the beef is tough, try marinating it in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the beef to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Mala is a popular flavor in Sichuan cuisine, known for its numbing and spicy taste.

Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, numbing, savory, sweet

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish.

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Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Umami, Aromatic