If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that brings the taste of Chinese takeout to your kitchen, this Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a must-try. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce come together in under 30 minutes, making this recipe a go-to for satisfying cravings without leaving home.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick and Easy: Cooks in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Tender Beef: Marinating the beef ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
Versatile Dish: Serve with rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor: A combination of soy sauce, garlic, and onions creates a perfectly balanced savory and slightly sweet stir fry.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Ingredients:
1 large onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450 g) beef, thinly sliced (sirloin, flank, or ribeye work well)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon white or black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Prepare the Beef:
Thinly slice the beef against the grain.
In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, cornstarch, and white/black pepper. Add the beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and beef broth. Mix well and set aside.
Cook the Beef:
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil.
Stir-fry the marinated beef for 1-2 minutes until it’s browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the sliced onions for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Combine Everything:
Return the beef to the pan with the onions. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir well.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the beef is fully cooked.
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor (optional) and garnish with chopped green onions.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Cutting the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Velveting the Beef: For extra tender beef, marinate it with a pinch of baking soda along with the cornstarch and soy sauce.
Use High Heat: Stir frying works best with a hot pan to sear the beef and onions quickly.
Don’t Overcook: Remove the beef as soon as it’s browned to prevent it from becoming tough. It will finish cooking when combined with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Extra Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for a more colorful dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar can work as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Serving and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. With tender beef, sweet onions, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Give it a try tonight and enjoy every bite!