Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (mince)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (e.g., canola, sunflower)
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of a kick!)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add Aromatics and Onion: Stir in ground ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the beef and onions. Stir constantly, bringing the sauce to a simmer.
  5. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and is glossy.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.