Chinese Beef And Onion Stir-fry Recipe

Are you craving a quick, flavorful dinner that doesn’t take hours to prepare? Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a perfect dish that combines tender beef with the sweetness of onions, all in a savory, umami-rich sauce. This easy recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without much effort. Let’s dive into the world of stir-fry with this delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry?

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a popular Chinese dish that features thinly sliced beef, usually flank or sirloin, stir-fried with onions in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and various seasonings. The beef is marinated to enhance tenderness and flavor, while the onions add sweetness and texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles and can be adapted with various vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Before we start, here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious stir-fry at home:

For the Beef Marinade:

• 250g beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine) or dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (to tenderize the meat)

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color)
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ cup water or low-sodium beef broth

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil suitable for high heat)
• 1 large onion, sliced into thin wedges
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient List for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry (Vegetarian Substitution)

If you’re vegetarian or simply want to switch things up, try substituting the beef with firm tofu or seitan for a delicious meat-free version. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Tofu Marinade:

• 250g firm tofu, sliced into thin pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster mushroom sauce (a vegetarian substitute for oyster sauce)
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ cup vegetable broth

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to adapt it according to your preferences and dietary needs:

• Beef Alternatives: Replace beef with chicken, pork, or even shrimp for a different protein option. If you're vegetarian, use tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and make sure to use a gluten-free oyster sauce or omit it altogether.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the dark soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• Extra Spices: If you like some heat, add a dash of chili oil or sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, and baking soda. Mix well to coat the beef, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water or beef broth. Stir until well combined and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the onion into thin wedges, mince the garlic and ginger, and cut the green onions for garnish. Set aside.
4. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated beef. Spread the beef in a single layer and let it sear for about 1 minute without stirring. Flip and cook for another minute until the beef is about 80% cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the onions and stir-fry for 2 minutes until they start to soften. Add the garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine and Finish: Return the beef to the pan, pour in the stir-fry sauce, and toss everything together. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the beef and onions. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

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

1. Marinate the Beef to tenderize and enhance flavor.
2. Prepare the Sauce separately to streamline cooking.
3. Cook the Beef on high heat for a quick sear.
4. Stir-Fry the Onions and Aromatics to build flavor.
5. Combine Everything with the sauce, cooking briefly to meld flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Thinly sliced beef cooks very quickly. Overcooking can make it tough and chewy. Keep the heat high and cook for only a minute or two.
• Skipping the Marination: Marinating the beef helps tenderize it and infuses it with flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Using Low Heat: Stir-fry dishes require high heat for that signature charred flavor. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef and vegetables.
• Adding Too Much Sauce: Chinese stir-fries are typically lightly sauced. Avoid drowning the ingredients in sauce; it should coat the meat and onions lightly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make this dish truly shine, consider these presentation tips:

• Serve with Rice or Noodles: Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles.
• Use a Wok for Authenticity: If you have a wok, use it! The high sides help stir-fry the ingredients more efficiently.
• Garnish with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: These simple garnishes add color, texture, and flavor.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Serve the stir-fry immediately while it’s still hot. Place it on a platter and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed rice and maybe a light vegetable dish, like stir-fried bok choy or steamed broccoli.

Presentation Ideas for Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

• On a White Plate: The dark color of the beef and the caramelized onions pop beautifully on a white plate.
• In a Serving Bowl with Chopsticks: For an authentic touch, serve in a bowl with chopsticks resting on the side.
• Family Style: Arrange all dishes in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves for a cozy, communal feel.

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Recipe Tips

• Slice Beef Thinly: For the best texture, slice the beef thinly against the grain. This makes it more tender and quicker to cook.
• Use High Heat: High heat gives the beef a quick sear and prevents it from stewing in its juices.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure the beef and onions get a proper sear without steaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like ribeye, skirt steak, or even tenderloin. Just make sure to slice thinly and against the grain for tenderness.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use a gluten-free oyster sauce or skip it entirely.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to maintain texture.

4. What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
You can use dry sherry or even mirin (though it’s slightly sweeter) as a substitute for Shaoxing wine.

5. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, add a dash of chili oil or sprinkle some red pepper flakes to give it a kick.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a savory, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef, sweet onions, and umami-packed sauce, it’s hard not to fall in love with this recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is approachable, versatile, and guaranteed to impress. Try it tonight and bring the flavors of a Chinese restaurant right to your dining table!

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