Name: Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional); 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tsp brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 large yellow or white onion, sliced; 2 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil; 2 tbsp water or beef broth; Chopped green onions, for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes.
Uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Tender beef coated in a rich, glossy sauce.
Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Delicious served with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Ingredients

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

Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional for depth)
Cornstarch
Brown sugar
Garlic, minced
Ginger, minced
Yellow or white onion, sliced
Vegetable or sesame oil
Water or beef broth
Green onions, for garnish

Directions

Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and brown sugar. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, a splash of water or broth, and a pinch of sugar. Set aside.
Cook the onions: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onions and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Sear the beef: Add a bit more oil to the pan. Stir-fry the marinated beef in batches until browned and just cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Combine: Return onions to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and toss everything together. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add sliced chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili paste for heat.
Garlic lovers: Increase garlic and add a touch of black pepper for a bolder flavor.
Vegetable boost: Stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for added crunch.
Teriyaki twist: Replace the oyster sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
Ginger beef: Add more fresh ginger for a sharper, aromatic note.
Low-sodium version: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip added salt.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Tip: Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the beef tender.

FAQs

1. What kind of beef works best for stir fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal because they’re tender and cook quickly.

2. Why do I need to slice the beef against the grain?

Cutting against the grain shortens muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites.

3. Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?

Yes, the same sauce and cooking method work well with chicken or pork strips.

4. How do I keep the beef tender?

Marinate it with soy sauce and cornstarch, and cook over high heat for a short time to avoid overcooking.

5. What kind of onion is best?

Yellow or white onions are traditional, but sweet onions also work well for a milder flavor.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the beef and prepare the sauce ahead. Cook just before serving for the best texture.

7. Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s not naturally spicy—but you can add chili oil or pepper flakes if you want heat.

8. What should I serve with Beef and Onion Stir Fry?

Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles pair perfectly with the savory sauce.

9. Can I thicken the sauce more?

Yes, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and simmer until thickened.

10. Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, but let it thaw slightly before slicing—it’s easier to cut thinly while still partially frozen.

Conclusion

Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a timeless classic that delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite. With tender slices of beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something satisfying and quick. Serve it with rice or noodles, and enjoy a takeout-style dinner made right at home.

Beef and Onion Stir Fry

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Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a classic Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender slices of beef stir-fried with caramelized onions in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with umami flavor, it’s a comforting, restaurant-style meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinese
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and brown sugar. Add sliced beef and toss to coat. Marinate for 15–20 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine additional soy sauce, oyster sauce, water or broth, and a pinch of sugar to make the stir-fry sauce. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Add remaining oil and stir-fry marinated beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through.
Return onions to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Cook beef in batches to prevent steaming and ensure proper searing.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a lighter flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 340
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 940mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg