Tianjin-style Zhal

Ingredients

In this Tianjin-style adaptation of Zhal, we incorporate the distinct flavors of Tianjin cuisine by adding Tianjin preserved vegetables, which provide a tangy and slightly spicy taste to the dish. Additionally, we use stir-frying as the cooking technique, which is commonly employed in Tianjin cuisine to create vibrant and flavorful dishes. We alse have the original recipe for Zhal, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Tianjin preserved vegetables, finely chopped 2 tablespoons Tianjin preserved vegetables, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, marinate the sliced meat with soy sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the marinated meat and stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Remove from the wok and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same wok, add the onion, bell pepper, carrot, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. 5.
   Add the Tianjin preserved vegetables and chili flakes (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for another minute.
6. 6.
   Return the cooked meat to the wok and toss everything together.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb or beef — For tender meat, slice it thinly against the grain.
• Tianjin preserved vegetables — Rinse them thoroughly before chopping to remove excess saltiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes.
• Feel free to add other vegetables of your choice, such as mushrooms or snow peas.
• Serve Tianjin-style Zhal with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Tianjin-style Zhal is best served hot, straight from the wok. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and color. Serve it as a main course alongside steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present Tianjin-style Zhal in a vibrant and colorful manner by arranging the stir-fried meat and vegetables on a large serving platter. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of visual appeal. Serve with steamed rice or noodles on the side.