CHINESE BEEF AND ONION STIR-FRY

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well until the cornstarch is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and water. Stir until well mixed and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Stir-Fry

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, allowing it to sear without stirring for about 1-2 minutes.
2. Stir-Fry the Beef: After searing, stir the beef continuously until it is browned and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes). Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions, bell pepper (if using), garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Add the Beef Back: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine, allowing everything to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve your Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry

• Slice Against the Grain: To ensure tender beef, slice the meat against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.
• High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that signature “wok hei” (the breath of the wok) flavor. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the ingredients.
• Prep Ahead: For quick cooking, prepare all your ingredients ahead of time. Chop vegetables, slice the beef, and mix the sauce to streamline the cooking process.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to customize the stir-fry by adding other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to boost the nutritional value.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a satisfying and flavorful dish that captures the essence of home-cooked Chinese cuisine. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory sauce, it’s a meal that can be whipped up in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious stir-fry with your favorite side dishes and savor the comforting flavors of this classic dish!