This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a flavorful and quick dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with crisp onions and a savory sauce, making for a deliciously satisfying meal.
INGREDIENTS
For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large onions, sliced into thin wedges
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup beef broth or water
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Marinate the Beef
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine (if using), and sesame oil.
Marinate the Beef:
Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry
Heat the Oil:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot.
Cook the Beef:
Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften and become translucent.
Add Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add Bell Pepper (Optional):
If using, add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the onions and bell pepper. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sugar, and beef broth (or water). Stir well to combine and heat through.
Thicken the Sauce:
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
3. Serve
Garnish:
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy:
Serve the beef and onion stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
Thin Slices: Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it remains tender.
High Heat: Use high heat to achieve a good sear on the beef and to cook the vegetables quickly, which helps retain their crispness.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can result in steaming rather than searing.
Adjust Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a classic and delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it with a side of rice or noodles for a complete meal!