Chinese: asparagus with black bean beef

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
½poundsBeef, sliced, marinated
1poundsAsparagus
¼teaspoonBaking soda, dissolved in
2 teaspoons water
1tablespoonChinese fermented black
Beans, minced with:
1teaspoonCornstarch
1teaspoonSoy sauce
½teaspoonRice wine
1teaspoonCornstarch
4Garlic cloves (1/2 teaspoon
Each)
1teaspoonRice wine
2teaspoonsSoy sauce
Peanut oil
½teaspoonSugar
¼teaspoonMSG (optional)
½teaspoonSalt
cupWater

Directions

CATE VANICEK

MARINADE FOR BEEF

GRAVY MIXTURE

Cut the beef when it is partially frozen, and cut it across the grain into thin slices.

Stir baking soda solution into the beef (to help tenderize it). Stir in the marinade. Then stir in 1 tsp peanut oil and marinate the beef for one hour or more in the refrigerator.

Heat 1 tablespoon peanut oil over high heat, add ½ teaspoon salt.

Stir in asparagus. Add ¼ cup water. Cover pan for 2 minutes, and do not lift lid. When done, remove to a platter.

Over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the RINSED black beans and garlic mixture. Stir for a few seconds. Add the beef.

Stir-fry quickly until barely. Do not overcook or the beef will become tough. Sizzle in 1 tablespoon of rice wine and 2 teaspoons of soy sauce. Stir in asparagus.

Add gravy mixture. Stir until thickened. Serve hot.

SOURCE: Stella Chan's Secrets in the Art of Chinese Cooking.