The beef tomato, a culinary powerhouse, boasts a rich, meaty texture and intensely sweet flavor that elevates countless dishes. Far exceeding its salad-bowl potential, this large, often-red fruit is a versatile ingredient prized by chefs and home cooks alike. Its robust flavor profile stands up well to robust seasonings and complements a wide range of cuisines, from Italian pasta sauces to vibrant summer salsas. Whether roasted, grilled, or simply added raw to your favorite dishes, the beef tomato delivers a satisfying depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate.
Its versatility extends beyond its taste; the beef tomato’s size and substantial flesh make it ideal for various cooking methods. From slow-simmering stews to quick stir-fries, its ability to hold its shape while developing a concentrated sweetness makes it a go-to ingredient for many recipes. To discover how to unlock the full potential of this remarkable fruit, let's delve into the detailed step-by-step process for preparing and cooking this delicious ingredient.
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Ginger: 1 inch piece
- Tomatoes (beefsteak or any kind)
- Green bell pepper: 1/2
- Onion: 1/2 large
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Flank steak
- Cornstarch
- Shoyu (or Tamari)
- Sugar (brown or white)
- Mirin (or Sherry)
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Oyster sauce
- Avocado oil (or other cooking oil)
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Slice or grate a 1-inch piece of ginger.
- Cut in half, remove the core, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Remove seeds and thinly slice, then cut into smaller pieces.
- Slice thinly.
- Smash, peel, and mince using a garlic press.
- Toss flank steak in cornstarch.
- Combine shoyu (or tamari), sugar, mirin (or sherry), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and oyster sauce in a bowl. Whisk until combined.
Step 2. Stir-fry Beef and Aromatics
- Add avocado oil to a pan over medium-high heat. Add beef, spread out, and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until 80% cooked.
- Remove beef from pan and set aside.
- Add more oil to the pan, add ginger and garlic, and cook until fragrant.
- Add onions and cook until softened.
- Add bell peppers and cook until onions are translucent.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add sauce and simmer until thickened. Mix everything together.
- Return beef to the pan and combine with the sauce and vegetables.
- Thicken the sauce further with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Use any type of tomato you prefer.
- You can adjust the amount of bell pepper and other vegetables to your liking.
- Add sesame oil sparingly, as it has a strong flavor.
- Don't forget the oyster sauce!
- Customize the thickness of the sauce to your preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: Dependent on ingredient amounts
- Fat: Dependent on ingredient amountsg
- Carbs: Dependent on ingredient amountsg
- Protein: Dependent on ingredient amountsg
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes instead of beefsteak tomatoes?
Yes! Roma or even cherry tomatoes will work, but beefsteak tomatoes provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the tomato size.
2. What if I don't have all the Hawaiian seasonings listed?
Don't worry! The recipe is flexible. You can substitute with other savory seasonings you enjoy. A blend of soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger will still create a delicious stir-fry.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, simply stir-fry everything together when you're ready to eat.
This 25-minute Hawaiian Beef Tomato Stir-Fry is a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal that's surprisingly easy to make. The vibrant flavors and quick cooking time make it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something flavorful and healthy. Enjoy this simple yet impressive recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite variations!