Hangzhou pepper beef tenderloin

How to Make Stir-Fried Beef with Hangzhou Chili Peppers

Stir-fried beef with Hangzhou chili peppers (杭椒牛柳) is a beloved Chinese dish known for its tender beef, smoky heat, and vibrant flavors. Here’s a simple guide to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: 250g beef tenderloin, sliced thinly against the grain; 10-15 Hangzhou chili peppers, sliced diagonally; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, julienned; 1 tbsp light soy sauce; 1 tsp dark soy sauce; 1 tsp Shaoxing wine; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt to taste.

Steps:

1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine beef slices with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and 1 tsp oil. Mix well and let it rest for 15 minutes to tenderize.

2. Prep the veggies: Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Stir-fry garlic and ginger until fragrant (10 seconds), then add chili peppers. Sauté briefly until slightly softened but still crisp.

3. Cook the beef: Push the peppers to one side. Add the marinated beef to the hot wok, spreading it in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the beef changes color and browns slightly.

4. Season and combine: Toss in dark soy sauce and sugar. Stir everything together, coating the beef and peppers evenly. Adjust salt if needed. Cook for another 30 seconds.

5. Serve: Dish out immediately and enjoy with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra flavor, use a smoky chili oil instead of vegetable oil. Slice beef thinly for quick cooking, ensuring it stays tender. Hangzhou chili peppers offer moderate heat with a hint of sweetness—adjust quantity based on spice preference. This dish balances savory, spicy, and umami notes, making it a perfect weeknight meal!