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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and satisfying warmth, you simply must try this Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe. Combining tender slices of marinated beef with the natural sweetness of onions and vibrant scallions, this dish delivers an irresistible combination of savory and slightly sweet notes, all brought to life with a luscious, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that comes together quickly yet leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds, perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, aroma, and texture in your Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe. From the tender beef strips to the punchy aromatics and that glossy sauce, every element counts.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain: Using flank or sirloin ensures tenderness and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tsp cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and creates a smooth coating for the sauce to cling to.
- 2 tsp light soy sauce: Adds salty umami depth to the beef marinade.
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): Gives a subtle aromatic sweetness and complexity to the beef.
- ¼ cup light soy sauce: Forms the savory base of the stir fry sauce.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce: Adds rich color and a touch of caramelized flavor.
- ⅓ cup water: Balances out the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t get too thick or salty.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Brings a sweet-savory punch that lifts the entire dish.
- ½ tbsp oyster sauce: Enhances the savory, slightly briny umami character.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with just the right amount of sweetness.
- ½ tsp sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that makes the dish unforgettable.
- ½ tbsp cornstarch (for sauce): Ensures the sauce thickens to a glossy, clinging consistency.
- White pepper powder, to taste: Adds a hint of spice without overpowering the other flavors.
- 3 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or sunflower): Perfect for quick, high-heat stir frying without overpowering flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Intensifies the fragrance and flavor foundation.
- 1 tsp ginger, minced: Brings a fresh, spicy zing that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 medium white onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and tender crunch to contrast the beef.
- 4 scallions, cut into 3-inch pieces (white and green parts separated): Adds sharpness, color, and fresh bite throughout the dish.
How to Make Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by combining your thinly sliced beef with 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of light soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine in a bowl. This simple marinade does wonders for tenderizing the meat and layering in subtle savory notes. Mix everything thoroughly and then set it aside to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to infuse deeply into every bite of beef.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
While the beef is soaking up those flavors, whisk together the stir fry sauce ingredients in a separate small bowl. This includes ¼ cup light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, ⅓ cup water, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, ½ tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon sesame oil, ½ tablespoon cornstarch, and a pinch of white pepper powder to taste. This sauce will be the magic touch that transforms the dish with its perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Heat 3 tablespoons of your preferred neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, sliced white onions, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and the aromas fill your kitchen. Once aromatic and tender, transfer the veggies from the pan and set them aside. This step builds the foundational layers of flavor in your stir fry.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
In the same skillet, carefully spread the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes over medium-high heat, allowing the edges to brown beautifully. Stir-fry briefly to ensure the beef is evenly cooked, locking in juiciness and that savory crust you want in every piece.
Step 5: Add the Sauce and Combine
Pour the prepared stir fry sauce directly into the skillet with your browned beef. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the beef gloriously. Now, return the cooked onions and white scallion parts back into the skillet. Add the green scallions last and stir-fry for just one more minute, keeping their fresh crunch and vibrant color. Your Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe is now ready to be savored.
How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro over the top. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the rich flavors beautifully. These simple garnishes add a burst of freshness that complements the harmony of the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This stir fry goes wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce like a dream. Alternatively, toss it with noodles for a heartier meal, or serve alongside stir-fried greens like bok choy or snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe in individual mini cast-iron skillets to keep it warm and impressive on the table. You can also wrap small portions in lettuce cups for a fresh and interactive eating experience that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef and Onion Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for an easy and flavorful meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the beef and onion stir fry, but for best quality, freeze the beef and sauce separately from the onions and scallions. Use airtight containers or freezer bags and consume within 1 to 2 months to enjoy the flavors at their peak.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat until steaming hot, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating when possible to keep the beef tender and the texture perfect.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin is recommended for their tenderness and quick cooking, other cuts like ribeye can work finely if sliced thinly against the grain. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid toughness.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry is a great substitute that offers a similar depth of flavor. For a non-alcoholic option, you can use an equal amount of chicken broth combined with a teaspoon of rice vinegar.
Is this recipe spicy? How can I add heat?
The classic Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe is mild and focuses on savory-sweet flavors. To add heat, toss in some sliced fresh chili, a dash of chili flakes, or a spoonful of chili oil during the stir-frying process.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While this version centers on beef, you can easily swap it for tofu or seitan and follow the same marinade and sauce instructions for a vegetarian-friendly option. Mushrooms also work well for adding that umami depth.
How do I get the onions perfectly tender but not mushy?
Cook the onions just until they soften slightly but still hold their shape by stir-frying them over medium heat for only 2 to 3 minutes. Removing them from the pan before overcooking ensures they add sweetness and texture without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe truly is a go-to comfort dish that is as satisfying as it is quick to make. Between the tender beef, sweet onions, and that luscious sauce, it has all the hallmarks of a beloved classic that you’ll want to keep coming back to. I highly encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors that make stir-frying such a joy in the kitchen.
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Print
Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A flavorful and quick Beef and Onion Stir Fry recipe featuring tender flank steak marinated in soy and Shaoxing wine, stir-fried with aromatic garlic, ginger, onions, and scallions in a savory hoisin and oyster sauce blend. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner served over jasmine rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
Stir Fry Sauce
- ¼ cup light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- ½ tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tbsp cornstarch
- White pepper powder, to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or sunflower)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 medium white onion, sliced
- 4 scallions, cut into 3-inch pieces (separate white and green parts)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 2 tsp cornstarch, 2 tsp light soy sauce, and 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine. Mix well to fully coat the beef.
- Rest the Marinade: Let the marinated beef sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
- Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, ⅓ cup water, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, ½ tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, ½ tsp sesame oil, ½ tbsp cornstarch, and white pepper powder to taste until smooth.
- Heat the Oil and Cook Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat 3 tbsp neutral oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, minced ginger, sliced white onion, and white parts of the scallions.
- Stir-fry Aromatics: Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become slightly soft and fragrant, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add the marinated beef in a single layer to the same skillet. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the beef is browned on all sides.
- Add the Stir Fry Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and stir continuously as the sauce thickens, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Vegetables and Finish: Return the cooked onions and white scallions to the skillet along with the green parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for 1 more minute to combine all ingredients and heat through.
- Serve: Serve the beef and onion stir fry immediately over steamed jasmine rice or your choice of noodles for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Shaoxing wine can be substituted with dry sherry if unavailable.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar and sauces to suit your preferred level of sweetness and saltiness.
- Using a wok or large skillet helps achieve even cooking and high heat stir-frying.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles for a complete meal.
