This quick recipe is ideal for a weeknight meal since it can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. The beef, fennel, onion, garlic and ginger help to warm up the body for cold winter nights. Fennel adds a hint of spice and mild licorice flavor, but it doesn’t overpower the palate. This recipe can be served with steamed rice or other whole grains.
Serves 2 to 3
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
8 ounces beef sirloin, cut into 1/4-inch strips
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 cup sliced yellow onions (about 1 small onion)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 fennel bulb, core removed, cut into 1/4-inch strips
1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch strips
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and 1 teaspoon soy sauce and sear for 1 minute. Remove the meat from the skillet, add the onions, and cook for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. Add the fennel, red bell peppers, water, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, honey, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with fennel fronds if desired for some additional licorice flavor.