Beef and Sugar Snap Peas is one of those simple stir-fries that never disappoints. Tender slices of beef are coated in a savory sauce, while sugar snap peas stay bright, crisp, and slightly sweet. The balance of texture and flavor makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough to feel special. Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice and you have a complete, comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes. The beef is tender thanks to a quick marinade with potato starch, and the sauce has the perfect balance of savory, slightly spicy, and lightly sweet flavors. The sugar snap peas keep their crisp bite, adding freshness to every mouthful.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Stir-Fry
1.5 lbs beef, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 lb sugar snap peas, ends trimmed
For the Marinade
2 tbsp sake
1 tsp garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
5 tbsp potato starch
For the Sauce
2 tbsp sake
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp tobanjan (chili bean paste)
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp water
For Serving
Cooked rice
How to Make Beef and Sugar Snap Peas
In a bowl, combine the beef with sake, garlic, soy sauce, and potato starch. Mix well and marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix all sauce ingredients and set aside.
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the sugar snap peas. Cook until bright green and just tender while keeping their crisp texture.
Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and snap peas.
Serve hot over steamed rice.
Tips for the Best Beef Stir-Fry
Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness. Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef; cook in batches if needed. Keep the sugar snap peas slightly crisp for better texture. Stir the sauce before pouring it in, as ingredients can settle at the bottom.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of tobanjan.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or short-grain white rice. You can also serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What cut of beef works best?
A: Flank steak, sirloin, or chuck all work well as long as they are sliced thinly.
Q: Can I use snow peas instead of sugar snap peas?
A: Yes, snow peas are a great substitute. Cooking time may be slightly shorter.
Q: What is tobanjan?
A: Tobanjan is a fermented chili bean paste that adds heat and depth. It gives the sauce a mild spicy kick and rich umami flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Q: How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
A: Avoid overcooking and cook the beef quickly over medium-high heat. The potato starch marinade also helps keep it tender.
Beef and Sugar Snap Peas is savory, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced with crisp freshness in every bite.
Beef and Sugar Snap Peas Stir-Fry
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 1.5 lbs beef cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 lb sugar snap peas ends trimmed
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp sake
- 1 tsp garlic minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 5 tbsp potato starch
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp sake
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp Tobanjan chili bean paste
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp ginger grated
- 2 tbsp water
For Serving
- Cooked rice
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine beef with sake, garlic, soy sauce, and potato starch. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Stir-fry marinated beef until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add sugar snap peas and cook until just tender but still crisp.
- Return beef to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and veggies evenly.
- Serve hot over rice and enjoy!