Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup water (for the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch to create the marinade.
- Place the sliced beef in a resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour half of the marinade over the beef. Toss to coat and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown.
- Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the remaining marinade mixture.
- Add 1/4 cup of water to thin the sauce and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the beef to cook through.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with green onions and serve the stir fry over cooked rice.
Tips for Success
- Beef Slicing: Slice the beef as thinly as possible against the grain for the most tender texture.
- High Heat: Stir-fry over high heat to get that perfect sear on the beef and veggies.
- Marinating: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to maximize flavor.
Variations
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms to the stir fry for more variety.
- Spicy: Add a splash of chili paste or extra red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Sweet and Sour: For a sweeter dish, increase the brown sugar or add pineapple chunks to the stir fry.
Why You’ll Love Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
- Quick and Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Savory and Sweet: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce creates a balanced savory-sweet flavor.
- Customizable: You can add or adjust vegetables and spice levels to suit your preferences.
Enjoy your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry! 🍚🥢
