Recipes Ideas

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

If you’re craving a delicious and easy-to-make dinner tonight, this Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry recipe is perfect for you! Tender beef strips, savory onions, and flavorful seasonings come together in this quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, for garnish
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a bit of oil and stir-fry the beef until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add more oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
  4. Add the beef back in, pour in the sauce mixture, and stir well to combine. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions.
  6. Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice.

Popular questions:

  • Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef for this stir-fry?

    • A: Yes, you can definitely substitute chicken for beef in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  • Q: Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?

    • A: Absolutely, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to enhance the dish.

  • Q: Is oyster sauce necessary for this recipe?

    • A: Oyster sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but you can omit it or substitute with hoisin sauce if needed.

  • Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    • A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and quickly stir-fry them when ready to eat.

  • Q: How can I make this stir-fry less salty?

    • A: Reduce the amount of soy sauce used and opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

  • Q: Can I freeze leftover stir-fry?

    • A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

  • Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

    • A: Pork, shrimp, or tofu are great alternatives if you prefer a different protein in this stir-fry.

  • Q: Is sesame oil necessary for the flavor?

    • A: Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma, but you can use vegetable oil if you don’t have sesame oil on hand.

  • Q: Are green onions essential for garnishing?

    • A: Green onions add a fresh finish, but you can use chopped cilantro or sesame seeds as alternative garnishes.

  • Q: Can I make this dish spicy?

    • A: Feel free to add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers to spice up this stir-fry according to your preference.

Helpful tips:

  • Marinate the beef in the sauce mixture for added flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet or wok for optimal heat distribution.
  • Slice the beef against the grain for more tender strips.
  • Cook the onions until caramelized for a sweet and savory taste.
  • Add a dash of rice vinegar or mirin for a touch of acidity.
  • Serve the stir-fry with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Experiment with different seasonings like ginger, garlic chili paste, or Chinese five-spice powder.
  • Double the sauce ingredients for extra sauciness in the stir-fry.
  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Expert Secrets:

  • Velvet the beef by marinating it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil for a silky texture.
  • Stir-fry the beef in small batches to ensure quick and even cooking.
  • Deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth or water to scrape up flavorful browned bits.
  • Adjust the seasoning with a touch of sugar or honey for a hint of sweetness.
  • Finish the stir-fry with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for a nutty finish.
  • Add a sprinkle of Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing and spicy kick.
  • Keep the heat high when stir-frying to achieve a smoky wok flavor.
  • Balance the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash of vinegar for acidity.
  • Enhance the aroma with a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil.
  • For a crispy texture, stir-fry the beef until slightly caramelized before adding the sauce mixture.