Name: Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon sugar; A pinch of black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil); 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish); Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce together in a perfect stir-fry. It’s simple to make, and the rich umami flavors will have your taste buds dancing in delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender Beef: The marinade creates a luscious texture for the beef, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Savory and Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich, umami-packed flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: With a cook time of just 10 minutes, this stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a hurry.
Customizable: You can easily swap out beef for chicken, tofu, or add your favorite veggies to change things up.
Affordable: With simple ingredients, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality meal at home without breaking the bank.

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon sugar
A pinch of black pepper

For the Stir Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, ketchup, Shaoxing rice wine (or dry sherry), and cold water. Set aside.
Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until they are softened and slightly charred. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In the same pan, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until browned. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until the beef is nearly cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Combine and Finish: Add the prepared stir fry sauce to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the cooked onions and beef to the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Serve: Serve the beef and onion stir fry over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chilies or a dash of chili paste to the stir fry sauce for some heat.
Additional Vegetables: You can include bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to add extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How do I slice the beef thinly against the grain?

Place the beef in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up. Use a sharp knife to slice the beef against the direction of the muscle fibers (the grain) into thin strips.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak or ribeye for sirloin. Just make sure the beef is sliced thinly to ensure quick cooking.

Is Shaoxing wine necessary?

Shaoxing wine adds depth to the flavor, but you can substitute it with dry sherry or omit it if it’s unavailable.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure the oyster sauce is gluten-free or use a suitable substitute.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I use frozen onions?

Fresh onions are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen onions if necessary. Make sure to drain them thoroughly before cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?

Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes and avoid overcooking it. Searing the beef quickly on high heat will help retain its tenderness.

Can I use a non-stick pan instead of a wok?

Yes, you can use a large non-stick skillet if you don’t have a wok. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this stir fry is great for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for quick meals during the week.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect recipe for busy nights when you crave something tasty and satisfying. With tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!