Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 36 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 0h 30m
  • Cook Time: 0h 10m
  • Total Time: 0h 40m
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Description

A quick and flavorful Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry featuring tender beef slices marinated in a savory sauce, stir-fried with onions, garlic, and ginger, finished with green onions. Perfect served hot over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Marinade

  • 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 medium onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces

Cooking Oils

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Serving Suggestion

  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, cornstarch, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly and allow the beef to marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Set this savory sauce aside for later use.
  3. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: Using the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, which builds the flavor base of the dish.
  5. Cook the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crispness, adding a sweet crunch to the stir fry.
  6. Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the browned beef to the wok along with any juices that have accumulated. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together well. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and onions are tender.
  7. Add Green Onions: Stir in the sliced green onions and give the mixture a final toss to distribute the fresh onion pieces evenly throughout the dish.
  8. Serve: Serve the hot Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry over cooked rice or noodles for a complete and delicious meal.

Notes

  • Be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Marinating the beef allows it to absorb more flavor and stay tender during cooking.
  • High heat is essential during stir-frying to ensure quick cooking and to retain crisp textures.
  • You can substitute Shaoxing wine with dry sherry or omit it if unavailable.
  • Adjust the sugar amount to balance the savory and slightly sweet flavor to your liking.
  • Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and taste.