Are you craving a satisfying meal that’s quick to whip up? Look no further! Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry combines tender beef, crispy onions, and savory sauces in one tasty dish. In this article, I’ll guide you through easy steps to create this flavorful stir fry. With just a handful of ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll impress your family or guests in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
Optional Add-Ins
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
– Fresh green onions for garnish
– Cooked jasmine rice for serving
When preparing Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry, you want to gather the right ingredients first. The flank steak is key. Slice it against the grain. This helps the meat stay tender when cooked. You will also need onions and garlic. They add flavor and sweetness to the dish.
For sauces, soy sauce is a must. It gives that classic umami taste. The oyster sauce adds depth, while hoisin sauce brings a hint of sweetness. If you like, toss in a bell pepper for color and crunch. Fresh green onions make a great garnish, adding freshness to your meal. Serve your stir fry over jasmine rice for a complete dish.
If you want the full recipe, check out the Beef & Onion Epic Stir Fry.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
First, slice the flank steak against the grain. This helps keep the beef tender. In a medium bowl, mix the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes. This short time is all you need for flavor.
When cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Make sure the oil is hot. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until it turns brown. It should not be fully cooked yet. Remove the beef from the wok and set it aside. This step is key to getting perfect beef texture.
Cooking the Vegetables
Next, it’s time for the vegetables. In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Heat it to high. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper. Stir-fry these for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to soften and caramelize slightly.
Caramelization adds a nice sweetness. Stir them often to avoid burning. When they are ready, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds. You will smell the lovely aroma.
Combining Ingredients
Now, let’s bring it all together. Return the beef to the wok. Add the cooked vegetables back in. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together to mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
You want the beef to be cooked through and the sauce to coat everything evenly. Serve with cooked jasmine rice. For a nice touch, garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your meal!
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
To stir-fry well, you need high heat. A hot wok cooks food fast. Keep the beef in a single layer. This helps it cook evenly. Stir it less often for a nice sear. If you move it too much, it won’t brown. For tender beef, slice it against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew.
To avoid overcooking beef, watch the time closely. After browning, quickly remove it from the heat. It will cook more when you add it back to the veggies. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices to boost flavor. Try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of five-spice powder adds depth. These enhance the taste without changing the dish too much.
Letting the beef rest is key. After cooking, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. When you cut into it, the beef stays moist and flavorful.
Presentation Tips
To serve, pile the stir-fry over fluffy jasmine rice. This makes a colorful dish. Drizzle a bit of sesame oil on top for shine. It adds flavor and looks nice.
For garnishing, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds crunch and freshness. A well-presented meal makes everyone excited to eat. Enjoy your creation! Try the Full Recipe for more details on this dish.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap flank steak for other cuts. Try sirloin or ribeye for a tender bite. If you want a leaner option, use eye of round. These cuts work well when sliced thinly.
Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Add broccoli, snap peas, or even carrots for color and crunch. Mixing in mushrooms can add a nice earthiness to the dish. Use what you have on hand to make this meal your own.
Dietary Adjustments
To make this dish gluten-free, choose tamari instead of soy sauce. It has a similar taste without gluten. You can also find gluten-free versions of oyster and hoisin sauces.
For vegan or vegetarian diets, swap beef for tofu or tempeh. Use the same marinade to infuse flavor. You can also add more veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, to make it hearty. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry pairs well with jasmine rice. The fluffy rice soaks up the sauce nicely. You can also try it with noodles for a different twist.
For drinks, consider serving it with green tea or a light beer. Both drinks balance the flavors of the dish. If you prefer something fruity, try a sweet lemonade. Each option enhances your meal experience.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge as soon as the dish cools. Proper refrigeration helps prevent spoilage. This dish stays fresh for about three to four days in the fridge. After that, the taste and texture may change.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheat them safely. The best method is to use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam the dish. This keeps the meat tender and the veggies from getting mushy. Stir it often until heated through. You can also use a microwave but cover the dish to avoid drying it out.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Let the stir fry cool completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. This helps keep the dish safe from freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry?
Cooking this dish takes about 40 minutes. You will spend around 20 minutes on prep. This includes slicing the beef and onions. The actual cooking time is about 20 minutes. You’ll stir-fry the beef and vegetables quickly, keeping them fresh and crunchy.
Can I use other types of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef. Sirloin or ribeye work well if you can’t find flank steak. These cuts may change the texture a bit but will still taste great. Just ensure the beef is tender and thinly sliced for the best results.
What is the best way to store leftover stir fry?
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them right after the meal. They will stay good for about 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of water to keep the stir fry juicy. Enjoy it over jasmine rice for a quick meal!
This blog post covered how to make a tasty Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry. We discussed the key ingredients like flank steak and sauces. I shared tips for cooking the beef and vegetables perfectly. You learned about variations and storage methods to keep your dish fresh.
In conclusion, making this stir fry is simple and rewarding. With the right techniques, you can create a delicious meal that suits your taste. Enjoy experimenting and sharing this dish with friends and family!