Sizzling Black Pepper Beef with Shiitake Mushrooms

Why Shiitake Mushrooms?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about one of the key ingredients: shiitake mushrooms. These earthy delights are not just an excellent addition to your meal for their taste—they're also a nutritional powerhouse.

Shiitake mushrooms are loaded with health benefits that make them a worthy addition to your diet:

• Immune Boosting: Shiitake mushrooms contain polysaccharides like lentinan, which enhance your immune system's ability to fight off illnesses.
• Heart Health: These mushrooms are known to help lower cholesterol and support cardiovascular health, thanks to compounds like eritadenine.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Shiitakes are high in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body.

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The Recipe

Now, let's get to the main event—our Black Pepper Beef with Shiitake Mushrooms recipe. This dish combines tender ribeye steak with the boldness of freshly ground black pepper and the deep, savory flavors of shiitake mushrooms. The result? A mouthwatering meal that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Ribeye steak
• 8 oz Shiitake mushrooms
• 1/4 purple onion, sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 - 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 cup Basmati rice
• Mixed veggies for grilling (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Method:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Start by cutting your ribeye steak into 1-inch cubes. This size is perfect for getting a good sear on all sides.
   • Mix together the red wine vinegar, Hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create your marinade.
   • Let the beef marinate in this sauce for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the rich flavors. If you have more time, marinating longer will intensify the taste.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat a wok over high heat and add your choice of avocado or peanut oil—both are great for high-temperature cooking.
   • Sear the marinated beef until browned, then remove it from the wok and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   • Clean your wok, then add a bit more oil if needed.
   • Stir-fry the shiitake mushrooms, bell pepper, and purple onion until they’re just tender but still vibrant in color.
   • Return the cooked beef to the wok and mix everything together, making sure the beef and veggies are well coated with any remaining sauce.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the black pepper beef over steamed Basmati rice, allowing the flavors to blend with the fragrant rice.

Optional Grilled Vegetables:For an added touch of color and nutrition, grill some asparagus, zucchini, and squash. Toss these veggies in olive oil, thyme, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper before grilling them to perfection.

A Dish That's Both Delicious and Nutritious

This Black Pepper Beef with Shiitake Mushrooms recipe is not just a feast for the senses—it's also a way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.

So next time you're planning a meal, why not choose something that’s both good for your taste buds and your health? Give this recipe a try and enjoy the benefits of a delicious, balanced meal.

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