Chinese Beef And Onion Stir-fry Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy meal packed with flavor? This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a perfect choice! Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with onions in a savory sauce, creating a deliciously fragrant dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete meal, and you’ll have a family favorite that’s simple, satisfying, and better than takeout. Let’s get cooking with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations!

this Recipe

What is "Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry"?

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a classic Chinese dish made by stir-frying thin slices of beef and onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic. The dish is quick to prepare and cooks in just minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and rich sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry:

For the Beef:

• 1 lb beef flank steak (or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 medium yellow onions (thinly sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (minced, optional)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry, optional)
• ½ tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
• 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

For Serving:

• Steamed rice or noodles
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Ingredients List for Toppings and Variations

Here are some additional toppings and variations to customize your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry:

• Toppings:
• Chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh finish
• Sesame seeds for added texture and flavor
• A drizzle of chili oil for extra heat
• Variations:
• Add Veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli along with the onions for a more colorful and veggie-packed dish.
• Spicy Version: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of chili paste for a spicy kick.
• Honey Beef: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweet and sticky version of the dish.
• Beef and Garlic Shoots: Replace or add garlic shoots for a more traditional twist with added texture and garlic flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

You can adapt this Beef and Onion Stir-Fry to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Beef: Flank steak is ideal for stir-fries, but you can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or even ribeye. For a budget-friendly option, try using ground beef or pork.
• Onions: Yellow onions work best for their sweetness, but you can use red onions for a bolder flavor or green onions for a milder taste.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free if necessary.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry:

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. Thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let the beef marinate for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but still slightly pink in the center. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Onions

1. Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok, then add the sliced onions, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and slightly caramelized.
2. If adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, stir-fry them with the onions until tender.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

1. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or sugar to balance the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the stir-fry from the heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

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

1. Marinate the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Stir-fry the beef in a hot wok until browned, then remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the onions with garlic and ginger until caramelized.
4. Combine the beef and onions with the stir-fry sauce and cook until the sauce thickens.
5. Garnish and serve over rice or noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Thinly sliced beef cooks very quickly. Be sure to remove the beef from the pan while it’s still slightly pink to avoid overcooking.
• Crowding the Pan: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures a good sear and prevents the meat from steaming.
• Not Prepping in Advance: Stir-fries cook quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry look as good as it tastes, follow these presentation tips:

• Family Style: Serve the stir-fry on a large platter with a side of steamed rice or noodles for guests to help themselves.
• Individual Bowls: Plate the stir-fry in individual bowls with rice on the bottom and the beef and onion mixture on top, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Add Color: If you’re serving this dish as part of a larger meal, add some bright stir-fried veggies or a colorful side salad to brighten up the plate.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

• With Rice: Serve the stir-fry over fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice for a traditional pairing.
• With Noodles: Pair the beef and onions with stir-fried noodles or simple boiled noodles for a heartier meal.
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add extra stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for a more nutritious, colorful dish.

Presentation Ideas for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

• On a Platter: Serve the stir-fry on a large white or black platter for a sleek, modern look, garnished with fresh herbs and sesame seeds.
• In a Bowl: Present the stir-fry in a deep bowl, with rice or noodles as the base and the beef and onion mixture on top.
• Layered Presentation: Serve the stir-fry with rice on the bottom, the stir-fried beef and onions in the middle, and a garnish of chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top.

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Recipe Tips

• Freeze the Beef for Easier Slicing: Place the beef in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to get thin, even slices.
• Use a Hot Wok: Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the beef to ensure a quick sear and prevent steaming.
• Make It Ahead: You can prep the beef and the sauce ahead of time for even quicker cooking. Just stir-fry the beef and onions when you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?
A: Yes, ground beef works well in this recipe! Brown the ground beef first, then remove it from the pan before cooking the onions.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, frozen vegetables like bell peppers or peas can be used. Just thaw them first and add them to the stir-fry along with the onions.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Q: Can I substitute the oyster sauce?
A: If you don’t have oyster sauce

, you can use hoisin sauce or add a bit of soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar as a substitute.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious dish that brings together tender slices of beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce in just minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want to impress your family with a tasty homemade meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in no time. Serve it with rice or noodles, and enjoy this easy and flavorful stir-fry anytime!

Print