Make a classic Chinese beef and onion stir-fry with tender slices of beef, caramelized onions, and a rich savory sauce. A quick and easy step-by-step recipe perfect for weeknight meals.
Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
Chinese beef and onion stir-fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights tender beef and sweet onions coated in a savory sauce. The key lies in quick cooking over high heat, which locks in juices and creates that signature stir-fry taste. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade
- 400g (about 14 oz) beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon oil
For the Stir-Fry
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or peanut oil)
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, black pepper, and broth. Set aside.
Prepare the cornstarch slurry separately.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon oil.
Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes without stirring too much. Stir-fry briefly until just browned, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Aromatics and Onions
In the same pan, add the remaining oil.
Add garlic and ginger, stirring quickly until fragrant.
Add sliced onions and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Sauce
Return the beef to the pan.
Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for a minute.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and onions evenly.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once everything is well coated and heated through, remove from heat. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- Steamed white rice
- Fried rice
- Noodles
Tips for Best Results
- Slice beef thinly and evenly for quick cooking.
- Use high heat to achieve authentic stir-fry flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook beef in batches if necessary.
Conclusion
Chinese beef and onion stir-fry is a fast, flavorful dish that delivers restaurant-style results at home. With tender beef, sweet onions, and a rich savory sauce, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for a satisfying meal any day of the week.