Chinese-Style Beef With Choy Sum (Easy Stir-Fry Recipe)
If you love simple Asian stir-fry dishes that are packed with flavor and take less than 30 minutes to cook, this Stir-Fried Beef With Choy Sum will become one of your go-to meals.
It combines juicy slices of beef with crisp, fresh choy sum (Chinese flowering cabbage), creating a delicious and nourishing dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
This version uses clean, everyday ingredients and a quick marinating method that keeps the beef incredibly tender and flavorful. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for the perfect complete meal.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Beef Stir-Fry
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Fast and easy: Ready in under 25 minutes.
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Tender beef: A light coating of starch locks in moisture.
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Crisp greens: Choy sum adds freshness, texture, and vibrant color.
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Family-friendly: Mild, clean flavors everyone can enjoy.
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Perfect for meal prep: Stays juicy even when reheated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef
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200g beef (sirloin, tenderloin, flank steak, or any tender cut), thinly sliced
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp light soy sauce
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A pinch of salt
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White pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)
For the Vegetables
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300g choy sum (or substitute with bok choy or Chinese broccoli)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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A small piece of ginger, cut into thin strips (optional)
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A little red bell pepper for color (optional)
Other
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Cooking oil, as needed
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Salt, to taste
How to Make Stir-Fried Beef With Choy Sum
Step 1 — Slice and Marinate the Beef
Cut the beef against the grain into thin, even slices.
Place the slices into a bowl and add light soy sauce, regular soy sauce, white pepper, a small pinch of salt, and the cornstarch.
Mix well and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
The starch helps the beef stay tender and silky once cooked.
Step 2 — Prepare the Choy Sum
Wash the choy sum thoroughly and remove any tough leaves or thick ends.
Chop into medium-sized pieces.
Blanch briefly in boiling water with a pinch of salt for 1–2 minutes, just until bright green.
Drain and set aside.
Step 3 — Prep the Aromatics
Chop the garlic and slice the ginger if using.
These aromatics give the stir-fry its signature fragrance.
Step 4 — Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a wok or pan over medium-high heat and add cooking oil.
When the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger and stir until fragrant.
Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly.
Once the beef changes color (about 1 minute), remove it from the pan.
This keeps the meat tender and prevents overcooking.
Step 5 — Stir-Fry the Choy Sum
Add a little more oil if the pan looks dry.
Add the blanched choy sum and stir-fry with a small pinch of salt.
Step 6 — Combine Everything
Return the beef to the wok and stir-fry with the choy sum for 2–3 minutes.
Everything should be evenly coated, hot, and flavorful.
Finish with a light sprinkle of white pepper.
Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Results
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Slice beef thinly to keep it tender and fast-cooking.
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Do not overcook—high heat and speed are key to juicy beef.
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Blanching the greens keeps them bright and crisp.
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Use fresh aromatics for the deepest flavor.
Serving Ideas
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Serve over steamed jasmine rice
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Pair with noodles or fried rice
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Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and color