Ampalaya con Carne

Ingredients

• 2 large ampalaya
• 1/2 pound top sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 onion, peeled and sliced thinly
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1

   Cut ampalaya lengthwise into halves. With a spoon, remove seeds and scrape off inner pith. Sliced thinly and place in a bowl of cold water until needed. Drain well when ready to use.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine beef, 1/2 of the oyster sauce, 1/2 of the soy sauce, sesame oil, and 3 teaspoons of the cornstarch. Marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well, reserving marinade.

3. 3

   In a wide skillet over high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil. Add beef and spread across pan. Allow to sear for about 1 to 2 minutes or until lightly browned and then turn to brown evenly. Remove from pan and set aside.

4. 4

   In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onions and garlic and cook, stirring regularly, until softened.

5. 5

   Add ampalaya and gently stir to combine. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until tender yet crisp. Return beef to pan.

6. 6

   In a small bowl, combine water, the remaining soy sauce and oyster sauce, the remaining 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and sugar. Stir until sugar and cornstarch are dissolved.

7. 7

   Add to pan and continue to cook, stirring regularly, for about 1 to 2 minutes or until beef is heated and the sauce thickens.

8. 8

   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.