This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my privacy policy.
Asian Beef Stew – A savory Chinese beef stew recipe with tender beef and vegetables. This slow-cooked dish is both comforting and delicious, and it’s incredibly easy to make!
Chinese Stew Beef
This Asian beef stew recipe is inspired by a lamb stew I enjoyed a few years ago on Hong Kong Island, China.
However, since I’m not a big fan of lamb, I decided to use beef instead, and the result is equally delicious. With Fall’s arrival and cooler temperatures on the horizon, this Cantonese beef stew is perfect for warming up and enjoying a rich, flavorful meal. Its blend of spices and tender beef will provide comfort and satisfaction as the weather turns.
Looking for cold weather recipe ideas? Check out Malaysian Chicken Curry, and Chinese Chicken Stew.
Clay Pot Or Slow Cooker
When it comes to making fall and winter stews, you can choose between using a Chinese clay pot or an electronic slow cooker/Crockpot, each with its own distinct features and functionality.
A Chinese clay pot (as pictured in my photos here), is made from unglazed ceramic and excels at retaining and even cooking. This makes it perfect for slow-simmering stews, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over a gentle, prolonged cooking process. Typically, the clay pot is placed directly on the stove or over a flame, adding a traditional touch to your cooking.
In contrast, an electronic slow cooker or Crockpot provides modern convenience. This appliance uses electric heat to cook food slowly and steadily over several hours. With adjustable temperature settings and a programmable timer, it offers flexibility and ease, making it ideal for those with busy schedules. The slow cooker’s versatility allows for a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews to tender roasts.
Both methods are excellent for preparing comforting fall and winter stews, with the clay pot adding a traditional Chinese/Asian element and the slow cooker offering practical advantages. For this Asian stewed beef, I opted to use my Chinese clay pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute the beef with other meats such as lamb, chicken, or even pork ribs, depending on your preference. Each type of meat will impart its own flavor to the stew, so adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly.
This recipe is 250 calories per serving.
What To Serve With Chinese Beef Stew
For a wholesome meal and easy weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes.
I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please leave a comment and consider giving it a 5-star rating. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore my Recipe Index, and stay updated by subscribing to my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.
Asian Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- ½ small onion, cut into small pieces
- 2 cloves garlic
- 250 g beef, cut into small cubes
- 6 mini carrots
- 2 sticks dry beancurd sticks, soak in warm water for 30 minutes, cut into pieces
- 120 ml water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 3 dashes ground white pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a clay pot, then add the onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant. Add the beef to the clay pot, followed by the carrots and beancurd sticks.
- Add the water and all the seasonings, then stir to combine thoroughly.
- Cover the clay pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the beef is tender. Serve hot with steamed white rice.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
What if I don’t have a clay pot, what else can I use. And where can I find dried bean stalks .
You can use a Dutch oven, heavy-bottomed pot, or large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid if you don’t have a clay pot. Dried beancurd sticks, also called dried tofu sticks or yuba, are usually available at Asian grocery stores or online. Look for them in the dried goods section.