Chinese Beef And Onion Stir-fry Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and savory meal that’s packed with flavor? This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry recipe is the perfect dish to satisfy your craving for something hearty and aromatic! With tender slices of beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Follow along to make this easy, restaurant-quality stir-fry right in your own kitchen.

Keep reading for the full recipe, including ingredient details, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to ensure a successful, tasty stir-fry every time.

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What is Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry?

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a classic Chinese dish known for its rich flavors and ease of preparation. Thinly sliced beef is quickly stir-fried with onions and coated in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. It’s typically served with steamed rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, offering a great balance of protein, vegetables, and intense flavors in every bite.

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Ingredients List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Here are the main ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious stir-fry:

1. Beef - 1 pound (450g), thinly sliced against the grain (recommended cuts: flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye)
2. Onion - 1 large, thinly sliced
3. Green onions (scallions) - 2, chopped for garnish

For the Marinade:

1. Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
2. Oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon
3. Shaoxing wine or dry sherry - 1 tablespoon
4. Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
5. Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
6. Sugar - 1 teaspoon
7. Baking soda (optional) - ¼ teaspoon (helps tenderize the meat)

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

1. Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
2. Oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon
3. Dark soy sauce - ½ tablespoon (adds color and depth)
4. Sugar - 1 teaspoon
5. Cornstarch - 1 teaspoon (to thicken the sauce)
6. Water or beef broth - ¼ cup

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Substitutions and Variations

If you’d like to customize this dish, here are some popular substitutions and variations:

1. Beef: You can substitute chicken or pork if you prefer. Just slice them thinly and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and crunch.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Spicy Version: Add a chopped chili or a teaspoon of chili sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
5. Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This will help ensure that each piece remains tender and cooks quickly. Place the beef slices in a bowl.
2. Marinate the Beef: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, sugar, and baking soda (if using) to the bowl of beef. Mix well to coat each slice. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have time.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water or beef broth. Stir until everything is well combined. Set this aside – it will be used later to coat the beef and onions.
4. Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the onion and chop the green onions for garnish.
5. Heat the Wok: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil to a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Let it heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
6. Cook the Beef: Add the beef slices in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
7. Cook the Onion: Add a bit more oil if needed, then add the sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and caramelized.
8. Combine Everything: Return the beef to the wok and pour in the sauce. Stir-fry everything together for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and onions evenly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Serve the stir-fry hot with steamed rice.

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

1. Slice and Marinate: Thinly slice your beef and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. Marinating helps tenderize the meat and allows it to absorb more flavor.
2. Prepare Ingredients: Prepare the sauce, slice the onions, and have everything ready near the stove. Stir-frying is a quick process, so you want all ingredients within reach.
3. Stir-Fry on High Heat: High heat is essential for achieving that signature “wok hei” (wok’s breath), which gives Chinese stir-fried dishes their unique smoky flavor.
4. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Stir-fry the beef just until it’s browned, then remove it from the wok. You’ll add it back later to finish cooking.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Wok: Adding too much beef at once will reduce the heat, leading to steaming rather than stir-frying. This can make the meat chewy instead of tender.
2. Skipping the Marination: Marinating the beef helps it remain tender and flavorful. Don’t skip this step!
3. Overcooking the Beef: Since beef cooks quickly, overcooking it will make it tough. Cook just until browned, then remove from the wok.
4. Using Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for best results. Low heat will make the ingredients soggy rather than crisp.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

A great dish deserves great presentation! Here are some ideas to serve your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry in style:

1. Serve with Steamed Rice: This stir-fry goes perfectly with a bowl of fluffy, steamed rice to soak up the savory sauce.
2. Add Fresh Vegetables on the Side: Consider adding a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
3. Garnish with Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
4. Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a little crunch to the dish.

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How to Serve Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

For the best experience, serve this dish fresh from the wok. Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is best enjoyed hot, with the beef still tender and the onions slightly caramelized. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice, and for an authentic Chinese dining experience, consider serving it alongside a simple stir-fried vegetable dish or a bowl of hot soup.

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Presentation Ideas for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

1. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the beef and onions on a large serving platter and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
2. Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls with a side of rice, garnished with fresh green onion for a pop of color.
3. Garnish with Cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro can add a fresh, vibrant touch to the presentation.

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Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Recipe Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh beef and onions yield the best flavor. Avoid pre-packaged stir-fry mixes for a more authentic taste.
2. Cut Beef Thinly: Slicing the beef thinly against the grain ensures it cooks quickly and remains tender.
3. Marinate the Beef Well: Marinating for even just 15 minutes can make a big difference in taste and texture.
4. Use High Heat: High heat is essential for achieving that smoky, restaurant-style flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and marinate the beef ahead of time. However, for the best flavor and texture, cook the dish right before serving.

Q: What cuts of beef work best?
A: Flank steak, sirloin, and ribeye work well for this recipe. These cuts are tender and absorb the marinade beautifully.

Q: Is there a way to make it spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add sliced chili peppers, a pinch of chili flakes, or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
A: Yes, bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas are great additions that pair well with the flavors in this dish.

Q: How do I prevent the beef from becoming chewy?
A: Marinate the beef and cook it on high heat just until it’s browned. Overcooking can make the beef tough.

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Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With tender beef, caramelized onions, and a savory sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Follow these easy steps and tips to make a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and enjoy a delicious homemade stir-fry that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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