Cantonese ground beef over rice captures the essence of a treasured culinary tradition, echoing the familiar comfort of bolognese. In this dish, the beef is expertly browned and tenderly cooked with seasonings like oyster and soy sauces, culminating in a luscious, dense gravy. When spread over soft rice, it represents the zenith of Cantonese comfort, beckoning repeated indulgences. It’s a childhood memory, a legacy from my grandma.
This recipe, which my grandma frequently prepared for my dad and his siblings, holds a special place in our family lore. And now, I feel a surge of joy in presenting this age-old Cantonese delight to all of you. Considering its undeniable appeal, even those with a penchant for burgers would find this an instant favorite!
Plus, the magic unfolds in under 30 minutes, making your dinner time both delicious and efficient.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound ground beef (450g)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (alternatively, dry sherry)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock (590 ml)
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (blended with 2 tablespoons water)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Instructions:
- Turn up the heat on your wok and drizzle in the oil. Introduce the ground beef, ensuring it attains a light brown shade while crumbling it to prevent lumping. Mix in the onion, garlic, and Shaoxing wine, moderating the heat to medium levels. Once the onions achieve a clear texture, pour in the chicken stock.
- Let the mixture reach a boil before adjusting to a gentle simmer. Fold in the oyster, light and dark soy sauces, sesame oil, and white pepper. Enclose with a lid, allowing it to simmer for another 10 minutes. Uncover, add the peas, and engage in a brief stir-fry for a minute.
- Ensure your cornstarch mixture is well-stirred and slowly incorporate it into the sauce, constantly stirring. Aim for a consistency where the sauce effortlessly adheres to a spoon. Should adjustments be needed, either add more of the cornstarch blend, let it simmer longer, or introduce a touch of water. Once perfected, it’s time to plate over the warm rice.
Enhancing Your Experience
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it’s bursting with rich, savory flavors. Ground beef, when simmered with authentic Asian sauces, unveils a world of flavors that not only satiates hunger but also warms the soul. Moreover, dishes like these emphasize the significance of family traditions in culinary arts. When you savor this, you’re not just indulging in a meal, but partaking in a rich cultural legacy that spans generations. Besides its historical roots, such recipes emphasize the convenience factor for today’s bustling lifestyle. Within minutes, a wholesome and flavorful meal stands ready, merging the past’s culinary richness with the present’s pace. So, the next time you find yourself in a mealtime conundrum, remember, tradition and convenience can coalesce beautifully on a plate. Enjoy your culinary journey!