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Ingredients for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch
Step-by-Step Directions for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
1. Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, Shaoxing wine (if using), sugar, and sesame oil. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have more time. This marinade helps tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Onions
In the same wok or skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and slightly caramelized.
5. Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the seared beef to the pan along with the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked, remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Wok or large skillet
- Sharp knife for slicing beef and onions
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk for the sauce
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stir-frying
Tips for the Best Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
- Slice the Beef Thinly: Be sure to slice your beef thin and against the grain for the most tender texture. You can partially freeze the beef for 15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.
- High Heat is Key: Stir-frying requires high heat to quickly sear the beef and onions. Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the ingredients to achieve the best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To avoid steaming the beef, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and prevents proper searing.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to this stir-fry to make it more colorful and nutrient-packed.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking the beef when reheating to keep it tender. This stir-fry also freezes well—simply store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
- Swap the Protein: Not a fan of beef? Try using chicken, pork, or even tofu as a substitute. Each option works beautifully with the savory stir-fry sauce.
- Add Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or broccoli are all great additions to this dish. Stir-fry them along with the onions for more color and crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add a bit of heat with some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
Suggested Pairings
This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, steamed jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Fried Rice: For a more indulgent meal, serve the stir-fry over a bed of fried rice.
- Noodles: Toss the stir-fry with rice noodles or lo mein for a complete, noodle-based dish.
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with steamed or stir-fried veggies like broccoli, bok choy, or snow peas for added nutrition.
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