Orange Peel Beef is a delicious and vibrant dish that combines crispy, tender beef with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, infused with the aromatic flavors of orange zest, garlic, and ginger. This dish is a popular takeout favorite that you can easily recreate at home, offering a perfect balance of savory and citrusy flavors. The beef is quickly stir-fried to perfection, then tossed in a flavorful sauce that clings to each piece, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Served over steamed rice, Orange Peel Beef is a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to adhere to the beef.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, ginger, and orange zest. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the aromatics. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until each piece is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Orange Peel Beef hot over steamed white rice, garnished with sliced green onions.
Orange Peel Beef is a delightful combination of crispy beef and a tangy, flavorful sauce. Its vibrant flavors make it a standout dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy the bright citrusy notes paired with the savory beef for a truly satisfying culinary experience.