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Slice the Beef: Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers, making it easier to tenderize.
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the baking soda, cornstarch, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and egg white (if using). Mix well until you have a smooth mixture.
Marinate the Beef: Add the beef slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, even 15 minutes can make a significant difference.
Rinse and Pat Dry: After marinating, rinse the beef under cold water to remove the baking soda. This step is crucial to avoid any residual taste. Pat the beef dry with paper towels.
Quick Cook: Now your beef is ready to be cooked! Stir-fry it in a hot wok or pan for 2-3 minutes until it’s just cooked through. The result? Incredibly tender, juicy beef ready to be used in your favorite stir-fry, noodle, or rice dishes.
Why It Works
Baking soda raises the pH level of the meat, making it more alkaline. This change in pH level causes the muscle fibers to loosen and prevents the proteins from bonding, which keeps the meat tender. Cornstarch helps to create a smooth texture and protect the meat during cooking, while soy sauce adds flavor and egg white enhances the tenderness.
Cooking Tips
Don’t Overcook: Velveting makes the beef tender, but overcooking can still make it tough. Cook the beef quickly over high heat.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh beef and high-quality soy sauce will yield the best results.
Conclusion
Velveting is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy tender, delicious beef without spending hours in the kitchen. This quick and easy Chinese technique ensures that even the toughest cuts of beef become succulent and flavorful in just a few minutes. Try it next time you’re cooking beef, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness that velveting brings to your table!
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