Savory Beef and Cucumber Stir-fry: A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
The Delicious Beef and Cucumber Stir-fry Everyone Loves
A delightful combination of beef and cucumber, this Beef and Cucumber Stir-fry is a must-try dish that’s sure to become a favorite. It’s perfect for any meal!
Main Ingredients- Beef (for Bulgogi or Japchae) 400g
- Korean Cucumber (Baekdadagi) 1 (or 2 regular cucumbers)
- Onions 2
- Cheongyang Peppers 2 (optional)
Seasoning & Marinade- Soy Sauce (or Soup Soy Sauce) 3 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 1/2 Tbsp
- Plum Extract (Maesilcheong) 1 Tbsp
- Cooking Wine (Mirin, etc.) 1 Tbsp
- Ginger Extract or Grated Ginger, a pinch (1/3 Tbsp)
- Sesame Oil 1/3 Tbsp
- Black Pepper, a pinch (for marinade)
- Soy Sauce (or Soup Soy Sauce) 3 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 1/2 Tbsp
- Plum Extract (Maesilcheong) 1 Tbsp
- Cooking Wine (Mirin, etc.) 1 Tbsp
- Ginger Extract or Grated Ginger, a pinch (1/3 Tbsp)
- Sesame Oil 1/3 Tbsp
- Black Pepper, a pinch (for marinade)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Gently pat the beef dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Marinate the beef with a pinch of black pepper and the pre-prepared marinade ingredients (1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/4 Tbsp minced garlic, 1/2 Tbsp cooking wine, a pinch of ginger extract). Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful beef.
Step 2
Wash the cucumber(s) thoroughly and peel. Slice into half-moons or lengthwise, about 0.5 cm thick. Wrap the sliced cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and gently press to remove excess water. Removing moisture prevents the dish from becoming watery and helps maintain the cucumber’s crisp texture.
Step 3
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry until they become translucent and release their natural sweetness. Slowly cooking the onions allows their flavor to develop, adding depth to the dish.
Step 4
Once the onions are sufficiently sautéed, add the marinated beef to the pan. Increase the heat to high and stir-fry quickly, breaking up any clumps of meat with chopsticks or a spatula. Cook just until the beef is browned on the outside but still moist inside.
Step 5
When the beef is almost cooked through, add the prepared cucumber slices to the pan. Continue to stir-fry over high heat for about 1 minute, or just until the cucumber is heated through but still crisp. Avoid overcooking the cucumber, as it will become mushy. Toss everything together quickly to ensure even cooking.
Step 6
Finally, add the chopped Cheongyang peppers (if using) and stir-fry briefly to combine. While optional, these peppers add a pleasant spiciness that balances the flavors. Just before turning off the heat, add the remaining seasoning ingredients: 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/4 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp plum extract, 1/2 Tbsp cooking wine, and 1/3 Tbsp ginger extract. Stir quickly to incorporate. Finish with a drizzle of 1/3 Tbsp sesame oil for added aroma and shine. Your delicious Beef and Cucumber Stir-fry is ready!
