Beijing Beef from Panda Express features tender, crispy battered beef strips tossed in a tangy, sweet-savory sauce with vibrant bell peppers and crunchy onions, delivering a flavorful and satisfying dish with a perfect blend of textures.
Equipments
- Wok
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Paper towels
- Plate (for draining)
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt
When preparing the batter for the beef, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour to achieve a crispy texture while keeping the inside tender. Use flank steak sliced against the grain to ensure the meat stays tender after frying. The sauce's balance of sweetness from white sugar and tanginess from white vinegar and ketchup is key to replicating the authentic flavor. Fresh bell peppers and onions add vibrant color and crunch, so avoid overcooking them to maintain their texture. Your homemade Beijing Beef from Panda Express copycat menu will deliver the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors reminiscent of the original dish.
Instructions
- Slice the flank steak into thin strips.
- Cut red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion into bite-sized chunks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, beaten egg, and water to form a batter.
- Toss beef strips in the batter until well-coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry beef strips in batches until golden and crispy; drain on paper towels lined plate.
- In a saucepan, combine white sugar, ketchup, white vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and ground black pepper.
- Bring sauce mixture to a simmer and stir until thickened.
- Heat a wok with a little oil; stir-fry bell peppers and onion until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add fried beef strips and prepared sauce to the wok with the vegetables.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Taste and season with salt if needed.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Beijing Beef from Panda Express copycat menu recreates tender, crispy battered beef strips tossed in a tangy, sweet-savory sauce with vibrant bell peppers and crunchy onions. If flank steak is unavailable, you can substitute with sirloin or skirt steak for a similar texture and flavor. Cornstarch can be replaced with arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option, maintaining the crispiness of the beef. Use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, for frying if vegetable oil is not on hand. When preparing the sauce, adjust chili garlic sauce quantity based on your spice tolerance to ensure your dish suits your personal taste.
Tips
Ensure your vegetable oil maintains a steady temperature of 350degF (175degC) before frying to achieve the perfect crispy texture without absorbing excess oil. When cutting the flank steak, slice against the grain to maximize tenderness in your beef strips. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine batter ingredients for an even coating that clings well during frying. Your sauce should be simmered gently until thickened to balance the tangy, sweet-savory flavors for that signature Beijing Beef taste.
Nutritions
Beijing Beef from Panda Express delivers approximately 470 calories per serving, with a notable protein content from the flank steak, which supports muscle repair and growth. The dish contains carbohydrates primarily from the batter and sweet sauce, providing quick energy, while the added bell peppers and onions contribute dietary fiber and essential vitamins such as vitamin C. However, the deep-fried preparation increases fat content, including saturated fats, so moderating portion size can help maintain balanced nutrition. Your meal can be optimized by pairing with steamed vegetables or brown rice to enhance fiber intake and nutrient diversity.
Storage
Store your leftover Beijing Beef in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve the crispy texture of the beef and the vibrant flavor of the sauce and vegetables. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture and taste of the crispy battered beef strips.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute flank steak with sirloin or ribeye for a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Swap out cornstarch for potato starch to achieve a lighter, crispier coating on the beef. Consider using a mix of soy sauce and tamari for a gluten-free option while maintaining the umami depth. For a milder taste, reduce the chili garlic sauce and add a touch of honey to balance the sauce's sweetness.
Allergies
Beijing Beef contains common allergens such as soy (soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce) and egg, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also uses wheat-based ingredients like all-purpose flour, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Your allergy considerations should include these components before enjoying the flavorful combination.
Why this recipe?
Beijing Beef from Panda Express appeals to customers due to its perfect balance of crispy battered beef, vibrant bell peppers, and tangy-sweet sauce that delivers a satisfying flavor and texture combination. The dish offers a versatile palate experience, blending traditional Chinese cooking techniques with Americanized seasoning that delights a wide audience. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients for fresher, higher-quality components and tailor the spice levels to your preference, enhancing the home dining experience. Recreating this menu favorite also provides an opportunity to enjoy a beloved takeout dish anytime without relying on restaurant availability or pricing.