Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a classic dish featuring tender slices of beef and sweet onions tossed in a rich, savory sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this stir-fry is a favorite for home cooks looking to recreate authentic Chinese flavors with simple ingredients. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
• Combines sweet, caramelized onions with juicy, flavorful beef
• Uses common pantry ingredients
• Great for quick weeknight dinners
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the beef marinade:

• Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• Cornstarch
• Baking soda (optional, for tenderizing)
• Oyster sauce
• Water
• Neutral oil

For the sauce:

• Light soy sauce
• Dark soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sugar
• Sesame oil
• Ketchup (for mild sweetness and tang)
• Water

For the stir-fry:

• Yellow or white onions, sliced into wedges
• Minced garlic (optional)
• Vegetable oil

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate the beef
   • In a bowl, mix sliced beef with cornstarch, baking soda, oyster sauce, water, and oil. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the sauce
   • In a separate bowl, mix soy sauces, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, ketchup, and water. Set aside.
3. Stir-fry the beef
   • Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. Stir-fry onions
   • In the same pan, add a little more oil. Stir-fry onions until slightly softened and caramelized (about 2–3 minutes). Add garlic if using.
5. Combine and finish
   • Return beef to the pan with the onions. Pour in the sauce and stir-fry everything together for another 1–2 minutes until beef is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
6. Serve
   • Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• With vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for more color and nutrition
• Spicy version: Include chili oil or red pepper flakes in the sauce
• Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice
• Ginger beef: Add fresh grated ginger along with garlic for added depth

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before reheating
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for stir-fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak work best due to their tenderness and ability to absorb marinade.

How do I slice the beef for stir-fry?

Slice thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness and even cooking.

Can I skip the baking soda in the marinade?

Yes, but it helps tenderize the beef. If you skip it, marinate a little longer for flavor absorption.

Is ketchup necessary in the sauce?

It adds subtle sweetness and balance but can be omitted or replaced with a touch of sugar and vinegar.

Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?

Absolutely. Thinly sliced chicken breast or pork loin are great alternatives.

What oil should I use?

Use a high-smoke point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for best stir-fry results.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.

What onions are best for this dish?

Yellow or white onions work best; red onions are slightly sweeter and can be used as well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Should I cook the beef all the way through before adding sauce?

No, sear it until 75% done, then finish cooking when combined with the sauce to keep it tender.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for fast, satisfying meals. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it delivers bold taste and texture in every bite. Add it to your weeknight rotation and enjoy the taste of a takeout favorite at home.

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