Name: Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola); 1 teaspoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; 2 teaspoons ketchup; 2 teaspoons oyster sauce; 1/4 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons oil (divided); 10 ounces small onions, sliced into wedges (about 3 small onions)

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

If you love dishes that come together quickly yet pack a flavorful punch, this Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe is going to become your new weeknight hero. Tender slices of flank steak marry perfectly with the sweet-savory crunch of seared small onions, all enveloped in a glossy, complex sauce that sings with notes of soy, oyster, and a touch of ketchup. This Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe not only satisfies your craving for a meaty, comforting dish but also emphasizes the beauty of simple ingredients working in harmony to create something truly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with two main layers: on one side, a mound of fluffy white rice with some small green onion slices scattered around the edges; on the other side, a rich dark brown sauce covers tender pieces of cooked beef and large, soft chunks of sautéed onions, all mixed together with a glossy texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a decorative spoon that has red and white patterns nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe lies in its simple but decisive ingredients that layer flavor, texture, and color effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender beef to the caramelized onions and the rich, savory sauce.

1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: Ensures tender, quick-cooking beef perfect for stir-frying.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helps tenderize the beef for maximum juiciness.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Coats the beef to create a silky texture and helps seal in moisture.
1 teaspoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola): Added to the marinade for flavor and smooth cooking.
1 teaspoon oyster sauce: Adds a deep umami richness straight from the marinade.
1 tablespoon water: Keeps the marinade balanced and helps distribute flavors evenly.
1 tablespoon light soy sauce: Provides saltiness and a subtle color.
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce: Adds a deeper color and a richer flavor.
2 teaspoons ketchup: Brings a tangy sweetness that rounds out the sauce.
2 teaspoons oyster sauce: Double dose here for extra savory complexity.
1/4 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, aromatic note into the sauce.
1/4 cup water: Creates the perfect sauce consistency.
2 tablespoons oil: For stir-frying the beef and onions to a perfect sear.
10 ounces small onions, sliced into wedges (about 3 small onions): Adds sweet crunch and vibrant texture to the dish.

How to Make Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Begin by tossing your thinly sliced flank steak with baking soda, cornstarch, a teaspoon of oil, oyster sauce, and a splash of water in a medium bowl. This marinade is your secret weapon for tender, flavorful beef. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes so the meat soaks up all those tasty enhancements, producing a silky texture that will elevate the stir-fry.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the beef marinates, mix light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, ketchup, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and water in a small bowl. This sauce is where the magic happens, combining salty, sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavors that will coat every bite of your Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe beautifully.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat your wok until it’s smoking hot—that high heat is crucial for that perfect sear. Add one tablespoon of oil and spread the beef evenly in a single layer. Resist the urge to stir immediately; let it brown undisturbed for about 30 seconds to one minute to develop those flavorful caramelized edges. Then stir-fry for another 15 to 30 seconds, cooking until it’s roughly 75% done, and set it aside to keep warm.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the sliced onions. Stir-fry until they’re slightly blistered and seared through—this takes about 60 to 90 seconds and brings out their natural sweetness while retaining a wonderful bite.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Pour your prepared sauce into the wok and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 15 seconds. Then add the beef and onions back to the wok, tossing everything together for another 30 seconds. This finishes cooking the beef and allows the sauce to coat each ingredient with glossy, flavorful perfection. Serve immediately over steamed rice to soak up every last drop of deliciousness.

How to Serve Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe

A white bowl is filled with pieces of raw red meat, showing a mix of lean and slightly fatty parts with a shiny, moist texture. The meat pieces vary in size and are irregularly layered inside the bowl, with some edges curling up. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface that provides a clean and bright background, highlighting the deep red color of the meat. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add a fresh, nutty crunch that complements the rich flavors of the stir-fry. A few fresh cilantro leaves can also brighten the plate and give a pop of green color that’s so inviting.

Side Dishes

This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with fragrant jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the mouthwatering sauce. For a lighter option, steamed bok choy or sautéed greens like spinach or kale add a fresh, nutritious balance. You can even serve it alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful crunch contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an exciting twist, serve your Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe over a bed of cauliflower rice or even noodles for a different texture profile. Presenting it family-style on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs encourages sharing and adds to the warm, communal feeling of the meal. Individual bowls with a lime wedge on the side can elevate the experience with a fresh citrus zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it a great dish for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to cool it down before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to save your Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe for longer, freezing is a good option. Place cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container and it’ll keep well for up to two months. Be aware the texture of the onions might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the beef. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce back to that perfect consistency. Microwaving works too, but reheating on the stove preserves the stir-fry’s fresh-cooked texture and taste better.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stir-fry?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, sirloin or skirt steak can also work nicely. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.

What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?

In a pinch, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce with a touch of fish sauce. However, these will change the flavor profile slightly, so adjust quantities to taste.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe is not spicy by itself, but you can easily add some heat by tossing in sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes when cooking the onions.

How important is the baking soda in the marinade?

Baking soda helps tenderize the beef by breaking down proteins. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality, so it’s highly recommended.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the beef up to 30 minutes ahead and mix the sauce in advance. Cooking is best done fresh to ensure the perfect sear and texture of the onions and beef.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe that’s not only quick and straightforward but bursting with flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises to wow with its tender beef, sweet onions, and vibrant sauce. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy, go-to meal that brings smiles all around the dinner table.