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Spicy Beef and Crushed Cucumber Stir-Fry

Deborah
We really enjoy the spicy, savoury flavour with the hint of sweetness.   The squeeze of lime is a must!!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Main, Main Course
Cuisine Korean
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large cucumber
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 500g beef mince
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 2 red chillies deseeded and finely chopped
  • 2 shallots thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp gochujang
  • 1 tsp sugar

To serve:

  • 300g basmati rice
  • handful of fresh basil, coriander and/or mint leaves chopped (see Notes)

Instructions
 

  • Cut the cucumber lengthways into quarters and then using a rolling pin or flat side of a chef’s knife, lightly crush the lengths of cucumber. Slice each length into 1 to 2cm chunks and set aside.
  • Heat the oil in a large heavy based frying pan or casserole over a high heat. Add the beef mince and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.   Use a wooden spoon to break up any lumps, then spread out the mince in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, undisturbed, until the bottom is brown and crisp.   Break up the meat again and stir, then cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until no pink parts remain.   Meanwhile, cook the rice according to packet instructions (normally around 10 minutes).
  • Push the mince to one side of the pan and add the garlic and chillies. Stir for 1 minutes until fragrant, then add the shallots and cucumber chunks and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the cucumber chunks are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally and scraping up any sticky bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
  • Stir in the vinegar, soy sauce, gochujang and sugar. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 2 minutes.   Season to taste.
  • Serve over rice, topped with the fresh herbs and with lime wedges for squeezing over.

Notes

  • We scattered over chopped basil leaves the first time we had it and think you'll really notice the difference depending on which herb you choose.
  • This recipe for spicy beef and crushed cucumber stir-fry is easily adapted if you’re cooking for less or more people.
 
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Keyword basmati rice, beef mince, cucumber, gochujang, quick meal, stir-fry