Combine steak strips and cornstarch in a large bowl. Mix until beef is coated and set aside. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, water, garlic and 2 tablespoons oil; whisk until combined.
Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer (do this in batches, if needed) and cook for 3 minutes per side. Transfer the steak to a separate bowl and cover. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the skillet (do not clean out!) and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer until mixture is thick, 5-7 minutes.
Add the steak back to the skillet and cook until heated through. Serve immediately over white rice and top with green onion slices!
Notes
A few tablespoons of hoisin sauce would be a delicious addition to this great recipe!
Garlic and ginger make such a delicious food duo in Chinese dishes, so feel free to add a bit of fresh or dried ginger to the recipe along with the soy sauce, water and brown sugar mixture.
Serve this dish over a pile of white or brown rice for the best flavor!
To make the recipe healthier, use low-sodium soy sauce.
Make sure to use a hot pan when cooking the steak to avoid over-cooking the beef.
Be careful not to overcrowd the pan! Cook the steak in batches, if needed.
Add sauteed or steamed stir fry vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas or broccoli for a great addition to your meal.