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Sambal short rib stir-fry: a spicy and delicious recipe

This high-protein sambal short rib stir-fry is a vibrant and satisfying dish, perfect for those who appreciate bold flavours and wholesome ingredients. The tender boneless beef short ribs, marinated and stir-fried in toasted sesame oil, are complemented by the earthy notes of shiitake mushrooms and the freshness of spring onions. A touch of sambal oelek adds a delightful kick, while the combination of ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.

Ideal for a quick family dinner or a post-workout meal, this stir-fry not only delivers a hearty dose of protein but also incorporates a variety of vegetables like snow peas and radishes for added nutrition. Serve it over cooked short-grain rice for a complete meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavour, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

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Ingredients for Sambal short rib stir-fry

  • 45 ml toasted sesame oil

  • 450 g boneless beef short ribs, thinly sliced against the grain

  • kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 2 small onions, thinly sliced

  • 225 g shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps thinly sliced

  • 1 bunch spring onions, cut into 2.5 cm pieces

  • 5 cm piece ginger, peeled, finely grated

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 60 ml sambal oelek

  • 15 ml mirin

  • 6 medium radishes, trimmed, quartered

  • 170 g snow peas

  • 240 ml reduced-salt chicken stock

  • cooked short-grain rice (for serving)

  • 120 g torn basil leaves

How to make Sambal short rib stir-fry

  1. Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat.

  2. Season the minced beef with salt and pepper, then cook, tossing and stirring frequently, until deeply browned, for 8–10 minutes. The meat may appear wet initially, but it will eventually take on colour and become shiny.

  3. Add the onions and mushrooms, then cook, tossing occasionally, until they soften and begin to colour, for 6–8 minutes.

  4. Stir in the scallions, ginger, and garlic, and cook, tossing constantly, until slightly wilted, about 2 minutes.

  5. Add sambal oelek and mirin, then cook, tossing to coat, for about 1 minute.

  6. Incorporate the radishes, snow peas, and broth, then bring to a boil.

  7. Cook until the liquid is reduced by half and the meat and vegetables are glossy and saucy, about 5 minutes.

  8. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

  9. Serve the stir-fry over rice, topped with fresh basil.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 3 Jul 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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