Classic Moo Shu Beef – Quick 30-Minute Asian-Inspired Stir Fry

Classic Moo Shu Beef – Quick 30-Minute Asian-Inspired Stir Fry

A restaurant-style Chinese beef dish that’s easier than takeout and packed with authentic flavors.

Key Info:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary: Can be made gluten-free with tamari

Equipment Needed:

• Large wok or deep skillet (12-inch minimum)
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Spatula
• Alternative: Any large non-stick pan will work if you don’t have a wok

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sugar (or sweetener of choice)

For the Stir Fry:

• 4 cups (300g) shredded cabbage
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) mushrooms, sliced
• 4 green onions, chopped
• ¼ cup (60ml) hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Method:

1. Marinate: Combine sliced beef with all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Let rest for 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Prepare Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in your wok over medium-high heat. Pour in beaten eggs, swirl to create a thin layer. Cook until just set (about 1 minute). Remove and chop into strips.
3. Cook Beef: Heat remaining oil until smoking hot. Add marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned.
4. Add Vegetables: Toss in cabbage and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until cabbage starts to wilt but remains crisp.
5. Combine: Return eggs to wok. Add hoisin sauce and green onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute to combine all flavors.

Crucial Tips:

• Freeze beef for 20 minutes before slicing for easier, thinner cuts
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed
• Keep ingredients moving constantly while stir-frying
• Have all ingredients prepped before starting to cook

Storage & Variations:

Storage:

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat

Common Mistakes:

• Using room-temperature meat (cold meat slices better)
• Overcooking the vegetables (they should retain some crunch)
• Not having ingredients ready before starting

Variations:

• Swap beef for chicken or pork
• Use pre-made coleslaw mix for faster prep
• Make it keto by using sugar-free hoisin sauce
• Serve with Chinese pancakes, lettuce wraps, or over rice