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Xinjiang Cumin Beef Stir-Fry

Tender sliced beef tossed with celery, peppers, and aromatic cumin in a 20-minute skillet finish. The secret is high heat, quick searing, and toasted cumin for that signature Xinjiang bite.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
385
Protein
38g
Xinjiang Cumin Beef Stir-Fry
quicksatisfyingchinesebeeftendercrispyweeknightstir-fry

Ingredients

  • ¾ lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium celery stalks, cut into 2-inch lengths
  • 2 medium bell peppers (red or mixed), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 stalks scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1.5 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3 tbsp neutral oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Toast cumin seeds until fragrant, stirring constantly, about 60 seconds. Transfer to a small plate.

  2. 2

    Return skillet to high heat with 1.5 tbsp oil. Sear beef in a single layer without moving for 90 seconds, then flip and sear another 90 seconds until edges are opaque.

  3. 3

    Push beef to the side of the skillet. Add remaining 1.5 tbsp oil, then add celery and peppers. Stir-fry for 3 minutes until edges begin to char and soften.

  4. 4

    Toss beef back with the vegetables. Pour soy sauce and vinegar over everything, then sprinkle toasted cumin seeds across the top.

  5. 5

    Stir constantly for 1 minute to coat everything evenly and warm the sauce through.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat. Add scallions, toss once, and serve immediately in bowls or over rice.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch stainless steel or carbon steel skillet
  • wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • small plate
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board

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