Chinese Beef And Onion Stir-fry Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, tasty, and easy-to-make meal that can please everyone at the dinner table, look no further than Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry. This savory dish features tender slices of beef, sweet onions, and a delicious sauce that's perfect over rice or noodles. Not only is this stir-fry recipe bursting with flavor, but it's also simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Read on to discover how to make this mouthwatering Chinese classic at home, along with tips for substitutions, variations, and how to serve it like a pro!

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What is Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry?

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is a popular dish found in many Chinese restaurants. It’s known for its simple yet rich flavors. Thinly sliced beef is cooked together with onions in a savory sauce that combines soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other key ingredients to create a harmonious blend of tastes. This dish is beloved for its tender beef, caramelized onions, and the umami-packed sauce that brings everything together. It’s easy to see why this stir-fry is a go-to recipe for busy home cooks who want a flavorful meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

To make this delicious Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry, you’ll need a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Beef: 1 lb of flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain.
• Onions: 1 large onion, sliced thinly.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for added depth of flavor.
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, finely minced.
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons, for that salty umami kick.
• Oyster Sauce: 1 ½ tablespoons, to add a rich, savory flavor.
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon, to balance the saltiness.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon, to thicken the sauce and coat the beef.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon, for its nutty aroma and flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons, for stir-frying.
• Scallions: 2 stalks, chopped for garnish.
• Water: ¼ cup, to deglaze the pan and create the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic version of Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is delicious as is, you can easily tweak the recipe based on what you have on hand or personal preference. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

• Beef Options: Instead of flank steak or sirloin, you can use other cuts of beef such as skirt steak or ribeye. If you prefer, you could even substitute chicken or pork for the beef to create a different protein base.
• Onions: While yellow onions are most commonly used, feel free to use red onions or even shallots for a slightly different flavor.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you're watching your salt intake, swap regular soy sauce with a low-sodium version.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and substitute with firm tofu or mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based stir-fry.
• Spicy Variation: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or some sliced fresh chili peppers if you like your stir-fry with a kick of heat.
• Additional Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to increase the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is quick and straightforward. By following these steps, you’ll have a tasty meal ready in less than 30 minutes.

1. Prepare the Beef: Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat remains tender. Once sliced, toss the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and ¼ cup of water. Stir until well-mixed and set aside.
3. Stir-fry the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the pan, cooking in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding. Stir-fry the beef for about 2-3 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Onions and Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan with the onions. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the beef and onions evenly.
6. Finish and Garnish: Remove the stir-fry from the heat and garnish with chopped scallions and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

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

For a quick recap on how to cook Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry, follow these key steps:

1. Marinate the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
2. Stir-fry the beef in a hot pan until browned.
3. Cook onions until soft and caramelized.
4. Add aromatics like garlic and ginger.
5. Combine everything with the sauce and let it simmer.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve hot!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too much beef at once, it can steam instead of sear, leading to a less flavorful stir-fry. Always cook the beef in batches if necessary.
• Overcooking the Beef: Thin slices of beef cook very quickly. Overcooking will result in tough, chewy meat, so keep an eye on it.
• Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time: Stir-frying is a fast process, so make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
• Using Too Much Sauce: You want the sauce to lightly coat the beef and onions, not drown them. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste if needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry. You can make this simple dish look restaurant-quality with a few tips:

• Serve Over Steamed Rice: The most traditional way to serve stir-fry is over a bed of hot steamed rice, which soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• Try Noodles: Alternatively, serve the stir-fry over cooked noodles such as lo mein or even rice noodles for a fun variation.
• Garnish: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or extra chopped scallions on top for added texture and a pop of color.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

When it comes to serving Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry, simplicity is best. Serve it alongside steamed white rice or brown rice, or on top of stir-fried noodles. You can also pair this dish with a side of stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or snap peas to balance out the flavors. A few extra garnishes like fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add that final touch of flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry

Elevate your stir-fry presentation with these ideas:

• Serve the stir-fry in a shallow bowl or on a large platter.
• Use chopsticks to neatly arrange the beef and onions in the bowl for a clean look.
• Garnish with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs like cilantro.

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry Recipe Tips

• Cutting the Beef Thinly: Always slice the beef thinly and against the grain to ensure it's tender when cooked.
• Velveting the Beef: Tossing the beef in cornstarch helps to create a soft, velvety texture.
• Hot Pan is Key: Ensure your wok or skillet is hot enough to sear the beef properly without steaming it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the stir-fry fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best to freeze the beef before cooking. Once cooked, the onions can become mushy, but the beef can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-fry is a perfect dish for anyone who wants to create a quick, flavorful meal without too much fuss. The combination of tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce makes this recipe a standout for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With the right ingredients and a few tips, you can easily make this dish at home and impress your family and friends. So next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, give this recipe a try and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both healthier and more delicious!

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