Name: Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank or sirloin steak thinly sliced; 2 medium onions cut into wedges; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1 tsp ginger grated; 2 tbsp soy sauce for marinade; 1 tsp cornstarch for marinade; 1 tbsp cooking oil plus more as needed; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce for sauce; 1 tsp cornstarch for slurry

and sweet caramelized onions together in a savory garlic-ginger sauce.

Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and tastes just like your favorite takeout—only fresher and healthier.

Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry

Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.

Bold Flavors: Garlic, ginger, and onion-packed sauce.

Tender Beef: Marinated and flash-cooked for perfect texture.

Better Than Takeout: Healthier and more customizable.

Family Favorite: Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality taste.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Beef (Flank or Sirloin): Thinly sliced against the grain.

Onions: Yellow or white onions, cut into wedges.

Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics.

Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: Builds a rich umami base.

Cornstarch: Helps tenderize beef and thicken the sauce.

Cooking Oil: High-heat oil like canola or avocado.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Slice Beef Thinly: Freeze for 15 minutes first for easier slicing.

Marinate the Beef: Even 10–15 minutes makes a difference.

High Heat Stir-Fry: Keeps beef tender and veggies crisp.

Don’t Overcook: Beef cooks fast—remove as soon as browned.

Add Onions Last: They should stay slightly crisp, not mushy.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Toss beef slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil.

Let marinate while prepping other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, water, and a bit of cornstarch.

Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat.

Add oil and sear the beef in batches until browned.

Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Onions

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.

Stir-fry onion wedges, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and onions are just tender.

Step 5: Combine & Sauce

Return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir-fry until thickened and everything is well coated.

Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil.

What to Serve It With

Steamed white or jasmine rice

Fried rice or cauliflower rice

Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers)

Noodles like lo mein or rice noodles

Variations / Substitutions

Use Chicken or Shrimp: Swap in your favorite protein.

Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce.

Add Veggies: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby corn.

Spicy Kick: Add chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper.

Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat: In a skillet over medium heat or microwave gently.

Freezer: Freeze in meal prep containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut beef?
Yes, just make sure it’s thin and marinated briefly.

Is flank steak the best cut?
Flank or sirloin are both great—just slice thinly against the grain.

Can I add more sauce?
Absolutely—double the sauce ingredients if you prefer extra.

Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but you can spice it up to your taste.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown?
Yes, but brown sugar adds more depth and a richer flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a classic comfort dish that’s incredibly simple and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re craving something savory and quick or looking for a healthier version of takeout, this recipe will deliver every time.

The Boat Shed Kitchen