Lemongrass Stir-Fried Beef

Ingredients:

• 400g beef (such as sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 stalks lemongrass, tough outer layers removed and finely minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil)
• Fresh cilantro leaves and sliced spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:
   • In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce and a pinch of black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry:
   • Heat a large pan or wok over high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
   • Add the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, and red chili (if using). Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Beef:
   • Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for 1-2 minutes to develop a nice crust.
   • Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is cooked through and slightly caramelized. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry Vegetables:
   • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the bell pepper and onion slices for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
6. Combine Everything:
   • Return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce.
   • Stir-fry everything together for another minute or so until the sauce evenly coats the beef and vegetables.
7. Finish and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more fish sauce, soy sauce, or sugar to balance the flavors.
   • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and sliced spring onions.
8. Serve:
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Enjoy your flavorful Lemongrass Stir-Fried Beef!