Chinese Beef And Onion Stir-fry Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner option, you can't go wrong with a classic Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry. This dish is a perfect combination of tender beef, sweet and savory onions, and a deliciously rich sauce. It’s an easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, and it pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will bring authentic Chinese flavors right to your dinner table. Read on to learn how to master this iconic dish step by step!

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What is Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry?

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is a popular Chinese dish made by stir-frying thinly sliced beef with onions in a flavorful sauce that typically includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. This simple yet satisfying meal is a staple in many Chinese households and can be found in Chinese restaurants worldwide. The dish is often served with steamed white rice or noodles and is enjoyed for its balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

Ingredients List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

Before you get started on this delicious stir-fry, it's essential to gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef Marinade:

• 500g beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for seasoning the beef)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to tenderize the beef)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance the flavors)

For the Stir-fry Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (for sweetness and depth)
• ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)

For the Stir-fry:

• 1 large onion (sliced into wedges)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2-3 green onions (sliced into 1-inch pieces, optional)
• ½ red bell pepper (optional, for added color and flavor)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds (toasted)
• Fresh cilantro or scallions (for serving)
• Chili flakes or fresh chili slices (for heat)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients or add others to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Beef Substitutes: If you don’t have beef or want a leaner option, you can use chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken and pork may cook faster than beef.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, use firm tofu or tempeh instead of beef. Marinate the tofu the same way you would the beef to infuse it with flavor.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to reduce the sodium content without compromising the flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free versions, or use tamari sauce as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
• Add Veggies: For a more colorful stir-fry, you can add vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers. This will add texture and nutritional value to the dish.
• Spicy Version: Add some sliced red chilies or a dash of chili oil to give the dish a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to prepare Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures tenderness and quicker cooking. If the beef is too soft to slice evenly, you can place it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, and sugar. Add the beef to this marinade, and let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and enhances its flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Set this sauce aside; it will be used later to coat the stir-fried beef and onions.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and once it's shimmering hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the beef is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the onions begin to soften. If you're adding bell peppers or other vegetables, toss them in at this stage and stir-fry for another minute or two.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce

Return the beef to the wok, and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce thicken, which should take 1-2 minutes. Ensure the beef is fully cooked and the onions are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the heat and toss in the green onions for added flavor and color. If you like a bit of heat, you can add some chili flakes or fresh chili slices at this stage.

How to Cook Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Slice the beef thinly for tenderness and marinate it to enhance flavor.
2. Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and a cornstarch slurry for thickening.
3. Stir-fry the beef quickly in a hot wok, ensuring a good sear for flavor and texture.
4. Stir-fry the vegetables, including onions, garlic, ginger, and any other vegetables you’d like to add.
5. Combine the beef and sauce, stir until everything is evenly coated, and the sauce thickens.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with your choice of sesame seeds or fresh herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking it. Stir-fry over high heat and remove it from the pan before it’s fully cooked. The beef will continue cooking when combined with the sauce later.
• Not Marinating the Beef: Skipping the marination process can lead to tougher, less flavorful meat. Marinating helps to tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.
• Using the Wrong Cut of Meat: Use cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye for the best texture. Avoid tougher cuts that require slow cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Stir-frying requires high heat and space for the ingredients to sear. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and result in steaming instead of frying.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry, here are some serving and presentation ideas:

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

• Serve it with Steamed Rice: White jasmine rice or brown rice makes the perfect base for soaking up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with fried rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
• Pair with a Side of Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas.
• Top with Fresh Garnishes: Sprinkle some sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro on top for added color and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

• Use a Large Platter: Serve the stir-fry family-style on a large platter, with the beef and onions beautifully arranged.
• Garnish with Color: Add a pop of color with fresh chili slices, bell peppers, or herbs.
• Serve in a Wok: For an authentic presentation, serve the stir-fry straight from the wok onto the table.

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry Recipe Tips

• Freeze the Beef Slightly: Freezing the beef for about 15-20 minutes before slicing will make it easier to slice thinly, ensuring tender pieces.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying is all about cooking quickly over high heat, so make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the ingredients.
• Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start stir-frying. Once the wok is hot, everything moves fast!
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this stir-fry. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables (like bell peppers) cook faster than others (like carrots or broccoli).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen beef?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it's best to let it thaw slightly before slicing for easier handling and more even cooking.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: You can prepare the beef and marinade in advance, but stir-fry the dish just before serving to keep the beef tender and the onions crisp.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: The traditional recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies to taste.

Q: What’s the best cut of beef to use?
A: Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are all great options for stir-frying because they are tender and cook quickly.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that you can whip up in no time. With tender marinated beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce, it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for the weekend, this stir-fry delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of authentic Chinese cooking right at home!

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