Beef Tomato Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Dish

Introduction

Looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor yet quick enough for a busy weeknight? This beef tomato recipe is a perfect go-to dish, bringing together tender beef and juicy tomatoes in a rich, savory sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

A Classic Comfort Dish

There’s something special about the combination of beef and tomatoes. It reminds me of the days when my mother would cook this dish, filling the kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling in the pan. The beef would soak up all those amazing flavors, and the tomatoes would break down into a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. Each bite was like a cozy embrace, filled with comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in just 30 minutes with little effort required.
  • Made with basic, affordable ingredients that are easy to source.
  • Pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or even crusty bread.

This dish is a lifesaver when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

Why This Beef Tomato Recipe Works

This beef tomato recipe is a favorite for a reason. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and highly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just need a quick, satisfying meal, this dish never disappoints.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about this recipe is how a few basic ingredients can create such a rich and delicious dish. The beef absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, while the tomatoes break down into a slightly tangy, savory sauce that coats everything beautifully.

Perfect for Any Meal

This dish is a great option for any time of the week. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. It’s also easy to customize—serve it over rice for a comforting meal, pair it with noodles for a fun twist, or enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both easy and delicious, this beef tomato recipe is the perfect choice. Up next, let’s go over what you’ll need to make it!

What You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the right ingredients and tools on hand. This recipe is simple, but having everything prepped will make the process even easier.

Kitchen Tools

  • A sturdy pan or wok for stir-frying and simmering.
  • A sharp knife for slicing the beef and dicing the tomatoes.
  • A mixing bowl for marinating the beef.

Key Ingredients for Beef Tomato Recipe

Ingredients for beef tomato recipe laid out on a cutting board including beef, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and fresh herbs.
All the simple, fresh ingredients needed to make a delicious beef tomato dish.

This dish relies on fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples to bring out bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Beef – Thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak for a tender texture.
  • Tomatoes – Large, ripe ones that add natural sweetness and tang.
  • Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Garlic and ginger – The perfect aromatic duo for enhancing flavor.

Essential Seasonings

  • Soy sauce – Brings umami and a deep, savory taste.
  • Cornstarch – Helps tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce.
  • Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Salt and pepper – Simple but necessary for seasoning.
  • Cooking oil – For stir-frying everything to perfection.
  • Water or broth – Creates a deliciously light sauce that ties everything together.

With just these simple ingredients and tools, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious, home-cooked meal in no time. Let’s check out the full ingredient list next!

Instructions for Beef Tomato Recipe

This recipe is quick and simple, so having everything prepped beforehand will make cooking a breeze. Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced dish.

Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Cut the beef thinly across the grain to ensure a tender texture. For an easy trick to achieve perfectly thin slices, check out this slicing hack from Allrecipes to make prep even simpler.
  2. Dice the tomatoes into small chunks so they soften easily in the sauce.
  3. Mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the onion.

Cooking the Dish

Beef tomato recipe
Marinated beef absorbs rich flavors before being stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and onions in a hot wok.
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion, and stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the marinated beef and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, sugar, and water or broth. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down into a rich sauce.
  5. Let the sauce thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Final Touch

  1. Take it off the heat and serve warm with steamed rice or noodles.
  2. Savor each bite of this hearty and delicious dish!

Now that your meal is ready, let’s check out some tips and tricks to make it even better!

Print
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Beef Tomato Recipe

Beef Tomato Recipe


  • Author: Saad
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

This quick and flavorful beef tomato stir-fry combines tender beef and juicy tomatoes in a rich, savory sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or crusty bread.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef & Marinade:

  • 1 lb beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 3 large tomatoes, diced
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ cup water or broth
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  • Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
  • Prepare Ingredients: Dice tomatoes, slice onions, and mince garlic and ginger.
  • Stir-Fry the Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and onion. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Cook the Beef: Add marinated beef to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Make the Tomato Sauce: In the same pan, add tomatoes, sugar, and water/broth. Let simmer for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down into a rich sauce.
  • Combine & Serve: Return the beef to the pan, stir to coat with sauce, and cook for 1 minute. If needed, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and add to thicken the sauce. Serve warm over rice or noodles.

Notes

  • For extra tenderness: Slice the beef against the grain and use cornstarch in the marinade.
  • Customize the sauce: Add oyster sauce for an umami boost or chili flakes for heat.
  • Pair with veggies: Stir in bell peppers or bok choy for added crunch.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per Serving
  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Protein: ~ 25g

Keywords: beef tomato stir-fry, easy beef recipe, quick dinner, stir-fry beef, Asian beef recipe

Tips and Hacks

Making a great beef tomato dish is easy, but a few simple tricks can take it to the next level. Here are some handy tips to help you get the best texture, flavor, and consistency.

How to Keep the Beef Tender

  • Slice against the grain – This shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
  • Use cornstarch in the marinade – It helps lock in moisture and creates a velvety texture.
  • Don’t overcook – Stir-fry the beef just until browned to keep it juicy.

Perfecting the Sauce

  • Adjust consistency – If you like more sauce, add extra broth. If the sauce is too watery, let it simmer for a bit longer.
  • Balance the flavors – A pinch of sugar cuts the acidity of the tomatoes, while soy sauce adds depth.
  • Enhance with spices – For extra warmth, sprinkle in chili flakes or a dash of white pepper.

These simple tips ensure that your beef tomato dish turns out just right every time. Now, let’s look at its nutritional benefits!

Nutrition Score

This beef tomato recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what each serving provides:

Balanced and Nourishing

  • Calories: ~320 per serving, making it a satisfying yet light meal.
  • Protein: ~25g, perfect for muscle building and keeping you full.
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g, mostly from natural tomato sugars and onions.
  • Fats: ~18g, with healthy oils and natural fats from the beef.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Beef – A great source of iron and B vitamins for energy.
  • Tomatoes – Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
  • Garlic and Ginger – Known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

This dish is a great option for those looking for a balanced meal that provides both comfort and nutrition. Up next, let’s talk about the best ways to store and reheat leftovers!

Serving & Storage

This beef tomato dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage will keep it just as delicious for later.

Best Ways to Serve

  • With Steamed Rice: The classic way to soak up the rich, savory sauce. If you love pairing flavorful sauces with rice, you might also enjoy this French Onion Soup Rice, which infuses rice with deep, caramelized onion flavors.
  • Over Noodles: A fun alternative for a comforting meal.
  • With Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and enjoying every bit of the flavorful sauce.
  • Alongside Vegetables: Serve with stir-fried or steamed greens for a balanced plate.

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: If you want to save it for later, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Tips

  • On the Stovetop: Heat over medium-low with a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
  • In the Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

With these simple storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy this dish anytime! Up next, let’s check out some delicious variations to customize this recipe.

Variations

This beef tomato recipe is already delicious on its own, but you can easily tweak it to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some exciting variations to experiment with:

Chinese-Style Twist

  • Add oyster sauce for extra umami. If you enjoy Asian-inspired flavors, you might also want to try this Salt and Pepper Shrimp, a crispy and flavorful seafood dish with a perfect balance of heat and seasoning.
  • Toss in bell peppers and scallions for added crunch and color.
  • Use sesame oil at the end for a fragrant finish.

Hawaiian-Inspired Flavor

  • Mix in pineapple chunks to add a sweet contrast to the savory sauce.
  • Use a little honey instead of sugar for a tropical touch.
  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for extra texture.

Hearty Stew Version

  • Let it simmer longer and add carrots and potatoes for a comforting stew.
  • Use beef broth instead of water for a deeper, richer sauce.
  • Serve with buttered bread or mashed potatoes instead of rice.

These variations let you switch things up while keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

FAQs About Beef Tomato Recipe

Still have questions? Here are some common ones about beef tomatoes and this recipe.

1. How often do you water big beef tomatoes?

Beef tomatoes need deep and consistent watering. It’s best to water them one to two times per week, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Be careful not to overwater, as excess moisture can cause root rot.

2. What are beef tomatoes best used for?

Thanks to their meaty texture and juicy flesh, beef tomatoes are great for cooking, salads, and sandwiches. They hold their shape well in stir-fries and stews, making them perfect for dishes like this beef tomato recipe.

3. Why is it called beef tomato?

Beef tomatoes get their name because of their large size, dense flesh, and hearty texture, which resemble a thick cut of beef. Their firm consistency makes them ideal for slicing and cooking.

4. What to do with too many beefsteak tomatoes?

If you have extra beefsteak tomatoes, you can turn them into homemade sauces, soups, or sun-dried tomatoes. They can also be sliced and frozen for later use in stews, stir-fries, or pasta dishes.

With these answers, you’re ready to make the most out of your beef tomato dish. Now, let’s wrap things up!

Conclusion

This beef tomato recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. The combination of tender beef and juicy tomatoes brings out a natural richness that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for later, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice, pair it with noodles, or enjoy it with warm bread—the possibilities are endless. Plus, with the variations and tips we covered, you can easily tweak the recipe to match your personal taste.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to head to the kitchen and give this recipe a try. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this dish with loved ones!

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