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.
Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate beef with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
- Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Sear beef in hot oil until browned. Remove.
- Stir-fry onions, garlic, and ginger until tender-crisp.
- Return beef to pan, add sauce, and stir-fry until thickened.
- Drizzle with sesame oil and serve hot.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/chinese-beef-and-onion-stir-fry/
Notes
- Slice beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Yellow or sweet onions work best for a balanced flavor.
- Add bell peppers or scallions for color and crunch.
