Ingredients

• 100g lean beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1/2g small carrot, julienned
• 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets, small
• 1/2g small zucchini, thinly sliced into half-moons
• 1 tsp cooking oil (e.g., canola or vegetable oil)
• For the Marinade:
• 1/2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 tsp grated fresh garlic
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch (or potato starch)
• For the Sauce:
• 1/2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp mirin
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Optional: Pinch of black pepper, sesame seeds or chopped green onion for garnish

Steps

1. Prepare the Beef Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1/2 tsp soy sauce, 1/4 tsp grated ginger, 1/4 tsp grated garlic, and 1/2 tsp cornstarch. Mix well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for 5-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables. Julienne the carrot, cut broccoli into small, bite-sized florets, and slice the zucchini into thin half-moons. Ensure corn kernels are thawed if using frozen.
3. Prepare the Stir-fry Sauce: In another small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tbsp mirin, and 1/2 tsp sesame oil. Set aside.
4. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tsp cooking oil in a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set it aside.
5. Sauté Harder Vegetables: In the same pan, add the julienned carrots and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, adding a tablespoon of water if needed to help steam the broccoli, until they are slightly tender-crisp.
6. Add Remaining Vegetables: Introduce the sliced zucchini and corn kernels to the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the zucchini is tender-crisp but still has a slight bite.
7. Combine and Sauce: Return the previously cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce evenly over all the ingredients.
8. Finish Cooking: Toss all ingredients gently to ensure they are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the sauce to heat through and slightly thicken.
9. Serve: Transfer the Japanese Beef & Veggie Stir-fry to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onion, if desired. Serve immediately, perhaps with a small side of brown rice for a complete meal.