Szechuan Beef: Mushrooms Or Not?

Szechuan beef is a Chinese dish that typically includes beef, peppers, onions, and garlic. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and other spices before being stir-fried with vegetables. While bell peppers and onions are commonly found in this dish, it can also be served with other vegetables, including mushrooms, water chestnuts, broccoli, and carrots. Some versions of Szechuan beef also contain peanuts, while others are vegan and made with plant-based beef alternatives.

Szechuan beef recipes

Szechuan beef is a Chinese dish that combines sweet, savoury and spicy flavours. It is characterised by the use of chilli peppers, Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger and soy sauce. The dish also often includes vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, broccoli and mushrooms, as well as nuts like peanuts and cashews.

There are many variations of Szechuan beef recipes, but most involve marinating thin strips of beef in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine and other spices, before stir-frying with vegetables. Here is one possible recipe:

Ingredients:

• Flank steak or skirt steak
• Soy sauce
• Rice wine
• Spices (e.g. Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger)
• Vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
• Nuts (e.g. peanuts, cashews)
• Oil for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

• Cut the beef into thin strips.
• Marinate the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine and spices.
• Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
• Stir-fry the beef until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
• Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
• Add your choice of vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until softened.
• Return the beef to the pan and combine with the vegetables.
• Add in the nuts and stir to combine.
• Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

You can also make a Szechuan sauce to go with this dish by whisking together ingredients such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil and beef broth. Simply pour the sauce over the stir-fried beef and vegetables, and simmer until thickened.

Feel free to customise the recipe to your taste preferences and enjoy the spicy, savoury and sweet flavours of Szechuan beef!

Szechuan beef ingredients

Szechuan beef is a Chinese dish that combines sweet, savoury and spicy flavours. The beef is typically sliced thinly and marinated before being stir-fried with vegetables. The dish gets its distinctive heat from Sichuan peppercorns and whole chillies.

Meat

Szechuan beef is typically made with flank steak or skirt steak, although some recipes call for sirloin. The beef is sliced thinly and marinated before stir-frying.

Marinade

A common marinade for Szechuan beef is a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, cornstarch and other spices. The soy sauce helps to tenderise the meat and infuse it with flavour, while the rice wine breaks down lean muscle fibres. Cornstarch acts as a binder and protects the meat from the intense heat of the wok.

Vegetables

Common vegetables used in Szechuan beef include bell peppers, onions, broccoli, water chestnuts, carrots and mushrooms. The vegetables are stir-fried with the beef, adding colour and texture to the dish.

Spices and seasonings

In addition to the whole chillies and Sichuan peppercorns that give the dish its signature heat, other spices and seasonings used in Szechuan beef include garlic, ginger, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. These ingredients add depth of flavour and enhance the sweet and spicy profile of the dish.

Nuts

Some versions of Szechuan beef contain peanuts, while others suggest roasted cashews or sliced almonds. These add a crunchy texture and extra flavour to the dish.

Garnishes

Garnishes such as sesame seeds and green onions can be added to Szechuan beef for extra flavour and texture.

Szechuan beef nutrition

Szechuan beef is a flavourful and spicy Chinese dish. While it is a tasty treat, it can be high in sodium and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation. A cup of Szechuan beef, weighing around 217 grams, contains approximately 228 calories, 15 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, and 16 grams of carbohydrates. In terms of macronutrients, this breaks down to 21% carbs, 53% fat, and 26% protein.

The dish is a good source of protein, providing 133% of the daily recommended value. It also offers 20% of the daily value of fibre and 38% of the daily value of potassium. The beef is typically stir-fried with vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, onions, and carrots, making it a colourful and nutritious meal.

The sauce used in Szechuan beef can include a range of ingredients such as mayonnaise, soybean oil, vinegar, corn syrup, rice vinegar, and spices like garlic powder, paprika, and peppercorns. This variety of ingredients contributes to the unique flavour and texture of the dish.

Overall, while Szechuan beef is a delicious and energising option, it is important to be mindful of the high calorie and sodium content and consume it as part of a balanced diet.

Szechuan beef vs Hunan beef

Szechuan beef and Hunan beef are two iconic dishes from China, showcasing the diversity of its regional cuisines. Here is a detailed comparison of the two dishes:

Origins and Cultural Context:

Szechuan beef originates from the southwestern regions of China, specifically the Sichuan province. It reflects the bold and spicy culinary traditions of the region, characterized by bold flavors cooked with high heat. On the other hand, Hunan beef hails from the Hunan province in central China. Hunan cuisine highlights the agricultural abundance and culinary creativity of the region. It is known for its spicy, dry-heat style of cooking, with dishes varying between seasons.

Flavor Profiles and Key Ingredients:

Szechuan beef is known for its intense spiciness and the unique numbing sensation derived from Sichuan peppercorns. The peppercorns add a tingly, citrusy note to the dish. Other key ingredients include dried chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. The dish is often served with steamed rice or noodles to balance the spiciness.

Hunan beef, in contrast, offers a robust, savory, and slightly sour flavor profile. It emphasizes the use of fresh chili peppers, garlic, and fermented black beans or soybeans. Hunan beef is typically stir-fried with vegetables such as onions, fresh peppers, and sometimes bamboo shoots. The dish is seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers, and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, and often chili paste.

Spice Level and Texture:

Szechuan beef is generally considered hotter and spicier than Hunan beef. The numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorns can reduce the heat of the chili peppers, allowing a better appreciation of their fruity notes. Hunan beef, while still spicy, has a milder flavor profile and a tingly sensation. It also tends to incorporate more vegetables, resulting in a crispier texture.

Nutritional Considerations:

Hunan beef is generally considered a healthier option, as it is lower in calories and cholesterol. However, it is important to note that both dishes can be high in saturated fat and sugar.

In conclusion, the choice between Szechuan beef and Hunan beef largely depends on individual spice tolerance and flavor preferences. Szechuan beef caters to those who enjoy bold, numbing spiciness, while Hunan beef is ideal for those who prefer a robust savory dish with a milder kick of heat.

Vegan Szechuan beef

Szechuan beef is a Chinese dish that combines sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours. It typically includes beef, peppers, onions, and garlic, and is stir-fried with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. The beef is usually marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and other spices before being cooked.

Creating a vegan version of Szechuan beef requires substituting the beef with plant-based alternatives. Here are some options for making Vegan Szechuan "Beef":

Chickwheat "Beef"

This method involves creating a chickwheat loaf, which can be sliced into strips to resemble beef. The chickwheat loaf requires a blend of various ingredients, including aquafaba or vegetable stock, poultry seasoning or its individual spices, rice wine or alternatives like white wine, and vital wheat gluten. The loaf should be blended until it reaches a medium-thick batter consistency.

Once the chickwheat loaf is prepared, it can be sliced into strips and coated with a mixture of Just Egg or vegan milk, vegetable oil, salt, and cornstarch. These coated strips are then pan-fried, creating the "beef" component for the Vegan Szechuan "Beef" dish.

Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)

For a quicker alternative, textured vegetable protein can be purchased from stores and used as a replacement for the chickwheat "beef." Simply rehydrate the TVP in boiling water, drain the water, and add it to your recipe in place of the cooked chickwheat strips.

Plant-Based Beef Strips

There are also pre-made vegan beef strips available, such as the Gardein Vegan Plant-Based Szechuan Style Be'f Strips. These strips are designed to be used in Szechuan dishes and can be conveniently ordered online or purchased from stores.

Seitan

Seitan is another plant-based protein that can be used in a similar manner to create a vegan version of Mongolian Beef. Pan-fry pieces of seitan until lightly crisped, then simmer them in a sweet, sticky, and spicy sauce. This sauce can be made from scratch or with hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice is often added for extra flavour.

Tofu

While not specifically labelled as "beef," tofu is a versatile plant-based protein that can be cubed and used as a substitute for beef in Szechuan dishes.

Regardless of the plant-based protein chosen, the cooking process for Vegan Szechuan "Beef" follows the traditional Szechuan beef recipe. The "beef" strips are stir-fried with vegetables, dried red chillies, and Sichuan peppercorns, which are essential for the authentic flavour and numbing sensation associated with the dish. The sauce is prepared by whisking together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and beef or vegetable broth. The dish is served immediately, often with steamed rice or vegetables.

Frequently asked questions