CHINESE BEEF AND ONION STIR FRY

For Garnishing:

• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Chopped green onions (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Wok or large skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Grater or microplane (for ginger)
• Bowl for marinating beef (optional)

How to Make Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Making this flavorful stir-fry is incredibly easy and takes just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the Beef: Using a sharp knife, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. This will help keep the beef tender as it cooks.
2. Marinate the Beef (Optional): While optional, marinating the beef in a mixture of 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, and a dash of pepper for about 10-15 minutes can enhance the flavor. This step is especially useful if you want to infuse the beef with extra seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Stir Fry the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice sear on the edges. Then, stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Onions and Aromatics

1. Cook the Onions: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the pan with the onions. Pour the sauce over the beef and onions, and toss everything together until well coated. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.
2. Serve: Serve your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry

• Tenderizing the Beef: If you want even more tender beef, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound the beef before slicing it. This breaks down the fibers and makes the meat extra tender when stir-fried.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying is all about cooking quickly at high heat, so make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the ingredients. This helps to sear the beef and caramelize the onions quickly.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to the stir-fry. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook quickly.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter stir-fry, increase the brown sugar in the sauce. If you like more of a salty kick, add extra soy sauce.
• Serve Over Noodles: If you want to make the dish a bit more filling, serve it over cooked rice noodles or lo mein noodles.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge.