Capture the spicy flavour of jambalaya in this easy stir-fry. For speediest prep, get the veggies ready while the beef marinates.
Stir-fried Cajun Beef with Couscous
- Yield: Makes 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
4 tsp paprika
1 tbsp EACH dried basil and oregano
1½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp EACH cayenne pepper and ground mace
¼ tsp pepper
1 can (28 oz/796 mL) diced tomatoes, drained and juice reserved
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 lb (500 g) Beef Stir-Fry Strips
Vegetable oil
½ cup EACH chopped onion, sliced celery and chopped sweet green pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
2 cups hot prepared whole wheat couscous
Fresh thyme sprigs or chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Cajun Spice Mix: Combine paprika, basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, mace and pepper in a glass jar or small bowl. Set 2 tsp aside for stir-fry and store remaining in an airtight container for up to 6 months. (Makes about 3 tbsp).
2. Combine reserved tomato juice and cornstarch in large sealable freezer bag. Add beef strips, massaging marinade into meat; seal bag and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.
3. Drain meat through colander set over bowl, reserving marinade. Cook beef strips over medium heat in hot lightly oiled nonstick skillet for 1 minute per side, or until browned but still pink inside. Transfer meat to clean bowl.
4. Add onion, celery, green pepper and garlic to skillet; stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes or until almost tender-crisp. Stir in the 2 tsp prepared Cajun Spice Mix. Return beef to skillet along with any accumulated juices, reserved marinade and tomatoes and bring to boil; cook, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over hot couscous and garnish with parsley, if desired.
