Step 1: Start by marinating the beef. In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with half of the thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will infuse the beef with flavor and tenderize it beautifully.
Step 2: While the beef is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Peel and julienne the carrots, slice the onion, and cube the potatoes. This is essential for even cooking and presentation. Trust me, we eat with our eyes first.
Step 3: Next, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt until it’s foamy but not browned. You want that beautiful nutty flavor without burning it, alright?
Step 4: Toss in the marinated beef, spreading it out to ensure it browns evenly. Sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nicely browned but not fully cooked through. We’ll finish cooking it later.
Step 5: Add the onions and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry these beauties until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. The color and aroma will be absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Now, let’s add the potatoes. These will take a little longer to cook, so toss them in and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If your skillet gets a bit dry, add a splash of water to help steam the potatoes.
Step 7: As the potatoes start to soften, it’s time to introduce the star of the show—the mango. Pour in the diced mango, and gently fold it into the mixture. The sweetness will start to caramelize, providing a gorgeous glaze over the beef and veggies.
Step 8: Finally, sprinkle in the chopped almonds and the remaining thyme. These crunchy nuggets add a fantastic texture to your dish. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until everything is well combined and heated through. If you want to jazz it up a bit, you can add a splash of vinegar for a hint of tanginess.
Step 9: Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. You want it to burst with flavor, so don’t be shy!
Step 10: Serve this delightful stir-fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with additional chopped almonds or fresh herbs if you’ve got them. Enjoy every mouthful of this vibrant fusion dish!