Beef Tomato Recipe: A Flavorful Classic You Need to Try
Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious, home-cooked meal that is both hearty and packed with flavor, then beef tomato is the dish for you. This classic recipe combines tender beef with juicy tomatoes, creating a savory, slightly tangy stir-fry that is popular in many cuisines, especially Chinese and Hawaiian-style cooking. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making the best beef tomato dish, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process. Let’s dive in!
What Is Beef Tomato?
Beef tomato is a simple yet delicious dish that consists of stir-fried beef and fresh tomatoes cooked in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s a popular dish in Asian households due to its balance of flavors and quick preparation time. The combination of juicy tomatoes and tender beef creates a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Rich in Flavor – The umami-packed sauce complements the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
- Nutritious – A great source of protein and vitamins.
- Ideal for meal prep – the flavors deepen and improve overnight!
Key Ingredients for Beef Tomato
Beef Selection
- Flank steak
- Sirloin
- Ribeye
- Tenderloin
For the best results, use tender cuts of beef that can absorb the marinade and cook quickly. Flank steak is the most common choice due to its rich flavor and texture.
Tomatoes
- Fresh, ripe tomatoes, preferably Roma or vine-ripened, for the best flavor.
- Avoid canned tomatoes for this recipe, as fresh ones provide better texture and taste.
Seasonings & Sauces
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Garlic
- Sugar
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Black pepper
- Sesame oil
Vegetables & Add-ins
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Green onions
- Ginger
Adding extra vegetables enhances the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Ultimate Beef Tomato Dish
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Slice the beef into thin strips.
- Marinate with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a dash of sesame oil for at least 15 minutes.
- Dice the tomatoes and slice the onions and bell peppers.
Step 2: Cooking the Beef
- Warm oil in a spacious pan over medium-high heat.
- Stir-fry the beef until browned, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
- In the same pan, sauté garlic, onions, and bell peppers.
- Add tomatoes and cook until they release their juices.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Add the beef back to the pan and stir thoroughly.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Tomato
| Accompaniment | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Rice | Classic pairing to absorb the flavorful sauce. |
| Noodles | Adds extra texture and makes it a complete meal. |
| Stir-fried Vegetables | Enhances the nutritional value. |
| Egg Fried Rice | A flavorful alternative to plain rice. |
Tips for Making Beef Tomato Perfect Every Time
- Use fresh tomatoes – They provide the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Don’t overcook the beef – Overcooking can make it tough.
- Marinate for extra flavor – Helps tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.
- Adjust sauce consistency – Add a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the tomatoes – Can make them mushy and lose their fresh taste.
- Using the wrong beef cut – Tougher cuts require longer cooking times.
- Skipping the marination step – Results in less flavorful beef.
Beef Tomato Recipe (With Table)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (flank steak) | 1 lb |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 large |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cooking oil | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
- Slice beef thinly and marinate.
- Warm oil in a pan and sauté the beef. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, cook garlic, onions, and bell peppers.
- Add tomatoes and sauces, letting them cook down.
- Return beef to the pan, mix well, and simmer.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fats | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is it possible to substitute canned tomatoes for fresh ones?
Fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best texture, but canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. Reduce additional liquid to prevent excess sauce.
Q2:How should I store leftovers for the best freshness?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute beef with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Q4: How do I thicken the sauce?
Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it during the final simmer.
Q5: What other vegetables can I add?
Try adding zucchini, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
Beef tomato is a timeless classic that’s both simple and satisfying. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any meal. Now that you have the full recipe, why not try making it tonight? Let us know how it turns out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
