Introduction
Craving that irresistible sweet, tangy, and crispy Beijing Beef from Panda Express? Now you can make it at home with this easy and delicious copycat recipe! This dish features crispy fried beef strips tossed in a bold, flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. Beijing Beef is a popular American-Chinese dish loved for its perfect balance of crunch, spice, and savory-sweet goodness. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or an indulgent meal for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your takeout cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Crispy, flavorful beef just like from Panda Express.
- Easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
- Bold, balanced flavors of sweet, tangy, and spicy.
- Healthier than takeout with fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep – stays crispy and delicious!
The Origin of Beijing Beef
Beijing Beef is a fusion dish that blends classic Chinese cooking techniques with American flavors. While it takes inspiration from traditional Chinese sweet and sour dishes, it was popularized by Panda Express as part of its American-Chinese menu. Unlike traditional Beijing cuisine, this dish features deep-fried beef strips coated in a tangy, spicy-sweet sauce, making it an irresistible fast-food favorite.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
For Stir-Frying:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- In a bowl, coat the sliced flank steak with cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip the beef pieces in the beaten egg to coat evenly.
- Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the beef until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add to the sauce to thicken.
Step 3: Stir-Fry Everything Together
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and let it simmer until thickened.
- Add the crispy beef and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Flank steak – High in protein and iron.
- Garlic & ginger – Boosts immunity and aids digestion.
- Red bell pepper – Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Soy sauce – Provides essential amino acids.
- Vinegar – Aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for the Best Beijing Beef
- Slice the beef thinly for tender and crispy bites.
- Use cornstarch and flour to achieve a crunchy texture.
- Double-fry the beef for extra crispiness.
- Let the sauce thicken slightly before adding the beef.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan – Fry beef in batches to maintain crispiness.
- Using too much sauce – A light coating keeps the beef crunchy.
- Overcooking the veggies – Keep them slightly crisp for texture contrast.
Serving Tips
- Serve with steamed white rice or fried rice.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Drizzle with extra hoisin sauce for extra richness.
Interesting Facts About Beijing Beef
- Not an authentic Beijing dish! Despite its name, Beijing Beef was created in the U.S.
- Inspired by sweet and sour pork, a classic Chinese-American favorite.
- Panda Express introduced Beijing Beef in 2008, and it became an instant hit!
Summarized Recipe
- Coat and fry beef until crispy.
- Prepare the sauce and set aside.
- Sauté garlic, ginger, peppers, and onions.
- Add sauce and beef, tossing to coat.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Conclusion
This Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, crispy, and tangy flavors. Now, you can enjoy this Panda Express favorite from the comfort of your home. Try it today and experience the deliciousness of homemade takeout!
