If you're craving a bold, sweet-and-savory stir-fry that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Tender Caramelized Beef with Pineapple is a must-try. The beef is pan-seared until golden and glazed in a sticky, umami-rich sauce with juicy pineapple chunks. It’s an easy weeknight meal with irresistible tropical flavor.
The caramelization from brown sugar or honey gives the beef a deep richness that pairs perfectly with the brightness of pineapple and zing of ginger and garlic. Whether served with rice or on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 500g (1 lb) beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to coat the beef, optional for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (for caramelization)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 small red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish only)
🔪 Instructions
1. Prep the Beef
Toss the beef chunks with cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This helps lock in juices and create a slight crust when seared.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar (or honey), and rice vinegar or lime juice. Set aside.
3. Sear the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning until browned. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
4. Add Aromatics
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced chili (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Caramelize
Pour the sauce into the pan and toss to coat. Add pineapple chunks and let everything cook together for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve
Plate the beef and pineapple hot, topped with chopped parsley or cilantro. Garnish with a rosemary sprig if desired. Serve over rice or noodles.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Cut beef evenly for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – it’s key for a good sear and caramelization.
- Use fresh pineapple if you prefer a less sweet dish with more natural acidity.
🧮 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbs: ~25g
- Fat: ~25g
- Sugar: ~10g
Based on 3–4 servings. Actual values may vary by cut and portion size.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Flank steak, skirt steak, or even sirloin strips work well. Just slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. Add more chili or a splash of sriracha for extra heat.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats quickly in a skillet or microwave.
What side dishes go well with this?
Serve with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or stir-fried veggies. It’s also great in lettuce wraps or with noodles.
Is canned pineapple okay to use?
Yes. Just drain it well. Fresh pineapple will have a firmer texture and slightly less sweetness.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Tender Caramelized Beef with Pineapple recipe brings together savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in a fast and flavorful stir-fry. It’s a dish you’ll want to keep in rotation easy enough for a busy weeknight, impressive enough for weekend guests. Give it a try and let your taste buds travel!
