Beef with Apples and Peppers

TO PREPARE MARINADE: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. Stir in the soy sauce, sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the beef to the marinade, tossing to coat, and let the beef sit in the marinade for 10 minutes.

In a wok or sauté pan over high heat, heat half of the peanut oil. Add half each of the shallots, ginger, and garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the apple and stir-fry for 1 minute more. Remove the mixture from the wok and set aside.

Add the remaining peanut oil to the wok. When the oil is hot, add the remaining shallots, ginger, and garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the beef and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Return the peppers and apples to the wok and toss. Add the soy sauce and cashews and stir-fry for 1 minute more. Finally add the sesame oil and toss.

Serve with the white rice.