Ming’s Beef is a tasty Chinese-American dish that has become popular across the United States. But what exactly is this dish, and where did it originate from?
In this article we’ll explore the history of Ming’s Beef, its main ingredients and recipe different variations, and where you can find it on menus today. Whether you’re already a fan or looking to try Ming’s Beef for the first time, read on to learn all about this mouthwatering beef stir fry!
The Origins of Ming’s Beef
While the exact origins of Ming’s Beef are unclear, it’s commonly accepted that this dish originated from Chinese immigrants who came to America in the early 20th century.
They adapted classic Cantonese beef dishes by using ingredients available locally to create what became known as Ming’s Beef. The name likely comes from a Chinese chef named Mr. Ming who first served the dish at his restaurant.
Over the years, the recipe spread from Western cities with Chinatowns like San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York to become popular across America. It became a staple menu item at many Chinese restaurants and takeouts.
Ingredients in Ming’s Beef
The primary ingredients that go into making authentic Ming’s Beef include
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Beef – Flank steak or sirloin are typically used. The beef is cut into thin 2-3 inch strips.
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Onions – Thinly sliced yellow onions are sautéed with the beef. They add sweetness.
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Bell peppers – Red and green bell peppers are the most common They add crunch and color
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Broccoli – Small florets or thinly sliced stems are used.
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Garlic – Minced garlic is cooked with the beef to add aroma.
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Soy sauce – This provides saltiness and umami flavor. Oyster sauce can also be used.
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Sherry wine – A splash of dry sherry adds sweetness.
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Cornstarch – A cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce.
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Sesame oil – Used sparingly, this provides nutty aroma.
The vegetables and seasonings balance out the hearty beef in this flavor-packed stir fry.
How to Make Ming’s Beef
Here is a simple recipe overview for how to make delicious Ming’s Beef at home:
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Marinate beef – Mix soy sauce, sherry, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Add beef and marinate for 20-30 minutes.
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Cook beef – Heat oil in wok or skillet over high heat. Sear beef in batches until browned but still pink inside. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics – Add more oil if needed and sauté onions until translucent. Then add peppers and broccoli and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
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Return beef – Add beef back to pan and toss everything together.
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Make sauce – Give sauce a stir and add more soy sauce if needed. Pour over beef and vegetables.
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Finish and serve – Remove from heat. Add sesame oil and toss. Serve immediately over steamed rice.
The key is cooking the beef in batches and not overcooking it. The high heat keeps the vegetables crisp-tender.
Regional Variations of Ming’s Beef
Over the years, Ming’s Beef has evolved into different regional variations across America:
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San Francisco – Uses more vegetables like bok choy and beansprouts. Often includes crispy fried noodles on top.
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New York – Adds brown sauce and oyster sauce for more savory flavor. Garnished with scallions.
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Los Angeles – Uses flank steak sliced across the grain for extra tenderness. Adds sweet bell peppers.
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Midwest – Skillet based instead of wok cooking. Thicker sauce with corn starch. Often uses cheaper steak cuts.
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Hawaii – Local produce like pineapple and Maui onions feature prominently. Teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce.
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South – More Americanized with thicker sauce. Uses skirt steak or cubed chuck rolls. Sometimes includes carrots.
No matter what part of the country, you can always expect to find Ming’s Beef on the menu at Chinese restaurants.
Where to Find Ming’s Beef on Menus
Ming’s Beef remains a menu staple at Chinese-American restaurants across the nation. Here are some places where you can try this dish:
- Small family-owned Chinatown restaurants in major cities
- Classic American-style Chinese restaurants and buffets
- Takeout-focused Chinese joints
- Fine dining Chinese fusion restaurants as an appetizer
- Regional chain restaurants like P.F. Chang’s or Pei Wei
- Grocery store prepared food/freezer sections
The surroundings may range from hole-in-the-wall joints to white tablecloth dining rooms, but you’re almost guaranteed to find Ming’s Beef in some form. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish appealing to Americans’ love of beef.
Make Your Own Ming’s Beef at Home
Once a mysterious foreign dish, Ming’s Beef has now become a beloved staple of American Chinese cuisine. With its rich flavors and textures, this beef stir fry makes for a delicious and easy weeknight meal.
Hopefully this overview has enlightened you on the background and composition of Ming’s Beef. Now it’s your turn to try making this classic at home – just fire up the wok!