Toss the sliced beef with egg white, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and let it sit while you prep, so it velvets.PT10M
Stir-fry the cabbage briefly and lay it in a deep bowl. In the wok fry the doubanjiang with half the garlic and ginger, add the stock, and bring to a boil.PT6M
Slide the beef slices in one at a time, poach just until they turn opaque, then pour beef and broth over the vegetables.PT3M
Top with the remaining garlic, the dried chilies broken open, and the Sichuan pepper, then pour smoking oil over the lot so it sizzles and blooms.PT1M
Can you make Water-Boiled Beef in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Water-Boiled Beef? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Water-Boiled Beef ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Water-Boiled Beef gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Water-Boiled Beef vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
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