Boiled beef

Boiled beef

This dish is a classic Sichuan specialty featuring tender beef slices submerged in a fiery red oil broth infused with chili, Sichuan peppercorn, and aromatic spices. It delivers an intense numbing-spicy kick with a rich, fragrant aroma, making it ideal for gatherings or bold-flavor lovers seeking authentic regional heat. The contrast between silky meat and crisp vegetables creates a deeply satisfying texture experience.

Taste: Numbing-spicy, richly aromatic, savory with subtle sweetness, layered umami from fermented paste and stockTotal Time: 45 minutes (including marination and prep)Servings: 2Suitable For: Adults who enjoy spicy food, Sichuan cuisine enthusiasts, dinner parties with bold palatesBudget: ¥45–65 RMB (mid-range, depending on beef quality and spice sourcing)

Ingredients

  • 500g lean beef (top round or sirloin)
  • 200g napa cabbage or bok choy
  • 50g dried red chilies
  • 30g Sichuan peppercorns
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 thumb ginger (sliced)
  • 2 green onions (chopped)
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
  • 1 tsp sichuan chili oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef stock
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry (for marinating beef)

Nutrition

Calories~680 kcal per serving (for 4 servings)
Protein48g (primarily from beef)
Fat42g (mostly from oil and chili oil; includes unsaturated fats from sesame and vegetable oils)
Carbohydrates12g (from vegetables, cornstarch, and minimal sugar)
VitaminsRich in B12, iron (beef), vitamin C (greens), and capsaicin (chili) for metabolism support

Tips

  • Use top round beef for best tenderness and affordability
  • Do not boil beef vigorously—simmer gently to avoid toughness
  • Toast peppercorns before grinding for maximum aroma release
  • Serve with steamed rice to balance the heat

Steps

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