Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Recipe | Quick and Flavorful

Bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout to your kitchen with this quick and easy Beef and Onion Stir-Fry. Tender beef, caramelized onions, and a savory sauce come together in a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Follow this recipe to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Proteins and Vegetables:

• 300g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Sauces and Seasonings:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Thickener and Cooking Liquid:

• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup beef broth

Oils for Cooking:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Thinly slice the beef sirloin against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch with the beef broth. Set aside.
3. Slice the onion and chop the green onions (if using). Mince the garlic and ginger for a fragrant base.

2. Marinate the Beef:

1. Season the sliced beef with salt and pepper.
2. Optional: Let the beef marinate in 1 tbsp of the prepared sauce for 15 minutes for added flavor.

3. Cook the Beef:

1. Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.

4. Cook the Aromatics and Onion:

1. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil in the wok.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and caramelize slightly.

5. Combine and Simmer:

1. Add the cooked beef back into the wok and stir in the pre-made sauce.
2. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the beef and onions with the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Add the chopped green onions and stir briefly.
2. Serve hot with steamed white rice or noodles.

Helpful Tips

1. Slice the Beef Thinly: Ensure the beef is sliced thinly against the grain to achieve a tender texture. Thinner slices cook faster and absorb the sauce better.
2. Choose the Right Beef Cut: Sirloin works great, but flank steak or ribeye are also excellent options. Look for well-marbled cuts for added flavor.
3. Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook the beef and onions quickly while retaining their flavors and textures. Preheat the wok or skillet before adding oil to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Stir-frying is a fast cooking method. Chop, slice, and measure all ingredients beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process.
5. Marinate for Flavor: Let the beef marinate in a portion of the sauce for at least 15 minutes. This step enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat.
6. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the beef in batches if needed to ensure even browning. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing.
7. Control Sauce Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch and beef broth ratio to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Add more broth if it’s too thick or simmer longer if it’s too thin.
8. Enhance Flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma and richer taste.
9. Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
10. Enjoy right away: Stir-fried dishes are at their best when served fresh and hot. Prepare your side dishes, like steamed rice or noodles, ahead of time for a seamless dining experience.

Conservation and Storage

Properly storing your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry ensures its flavors and textures are preserved for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively:

Refrigeration:

• Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in a sealed airtight container to preserve its freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Freezing:

• While best enjoyed fresh, the stir-fry can be frozen if needed.
• Place the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Mark the container with the date to monitor its storage duration.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thawing:

• Thaw frozen stir-fry overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent any food safety risks.

Reheating Tips:

• On the stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a small splash of beef broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until fully warmed.

Storage Notes:

• Avoid storing the stir-fry with rice or noodles, as these can become soggy. Store them separately if preparing in advance.

With proper storage, your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry will taste just as delicious as when freshly made!

Variations

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Spicy Beef Stir-Fry:

• Add a teaspoon of chili paste, red pepper flakes, or sliced red chilies to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Drizzle with Sriracha or chili oil before serving for extra heat.

2. Vegetable-Packed Stir-Fry:

• Incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms.
• Stir-fry the vegetables separately to maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color.

3. Low-Sodium Option:

• Use low-sodium soy sauce, broth, and oyster sauce to reduce the overall salt content while retaining flavor.

4. Sweet and Savory Twist:

• Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.

5. Vegetarian Alternative:

• Replace the beef with tofu, tempeh, or seitan for a plant-based version.
• Substitute vegetable broth in place of beef broth for the sauce.

6. Different Proteins:

• Swap the beef for chicken, pork, or shrimp to create a new version of the dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.

7. Noodle Stir-Fry:

• Substitute rice with stir-fried noodles such as lo mein, udon, or rice noodles for a hearty one-pan meal.

8. Ginger and Garlic Boost:

• Increase the amount of minced ginger and garlic for a stronger aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a flavorful and versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal:

1. Classic Pairing:

• Plate the stir-fry on top of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite delicious.
• For a healthier option, use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.

2. Noodle Options:

• Toss the stir-fry with cooked lo mein, udon, or rice noodles for a hearty one-pan meal.
• Add a drizzle of sesame oil or soy sauce to the noodles for enhanced flavor.

3. Vegetable Sides:

• Pair the dish with stir-fried or steamed vegetables such as bok choy, snow peas, or broccoli for a balanced plate.
• A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds provides a refreshing contrast.

4. Appetizers:

• Start your meal with classic Chinese appetizers like spring rolls, dumplings, or wonton soup to complement the stir-fry.
• Crispy prawn crackers or fried wontons add a fun and crunchy element to the table.

5. Garnish and Presentation:

• Garnish the stir-fry with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality finish.
• Serve it in a large bowl family-style, allowing guests to help themselves.

6. Drinks to Pair:

• Complement the dish with a cup of hot green tea for a traditional pairing.
• A light, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp beer also pairs well with the rich flavors of the stir-fry.

With these serving suggestions, your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry will be a satisfying and memorable meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, you can substitute sirloin with flank steak, ribeye, or even ground beef. Just ensure the meat is thinly sliced for even cooking and tenderness.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the beef with tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce, and adjust the seasonings as needed for flavor.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work well in this dish. Thaw them before adding to the stir-fry to prevent excess water.

4. How do I keep the beef tender?
Thinly slice the beef against the grain and cook it quickly over high heat. Be careful not to overcook, as it can result in tough meat. Marinating the beef for 15-20 minutes can also enhance tenderness.

5. Is it possible to prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce beforehand and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to stir it thoroughly before using.

6. How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the stir-fry. Let it simmer for a minute to thicken.

7. What’s the best side to serve with this dish?
Steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables make excellent accompaniments to balance the flavors and create a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a timeless dish that effortlessly combines simplicity, bold flavors, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing it as a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to a family meal, this recipe delivers every time. The tender beef, caramelized onions, and savory sauce create a harmonious balance that’s sure to please any palate.

A key highlight of this dish is its incredible versatility. You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or experimenting with different proteins. It’s a meal that grows with you, allowing you to explore and customize flavors to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Beyond its incredible taste, this stir-fry is also practical. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Whether you serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or alongside a variety of side dishes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.

Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a healthier alternative to takeout, all while enjoying the rich and authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine. With this recipe, you’ll discover just how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality meals into your own kitchen.

Try this Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry today, and savor the joy of a delicious, homemade dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s more than a meal. It’s an experience to share and enjoy.

For a slightly different take on this classic dish, check out this Beef and Onion Stir-Fry recipe from Pups with Chopsticks. It offers additional tips and variations to perfect your stir-fry!

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