- Prep the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain. This will help ensure tenderness when cooked.
- Slice the onions thinly. The more uniform the slices, the more evenly they’ll cook and caramelize.
- Mince the garlic, and have the soy sauce, beef broth, and other seasonings ready.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the onions with a pinch of salt and the teaspoon of sugar. Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become golden brown and caramelized. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning.
- Cook the Beef:
- Once the onions are caramelized, transfer them to a plate and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the sliced beef and sauté it until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, so you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). If you’d like, add soy sauce for extra flavor.
- Combine Beef and Onions:
- Once the beef is browned, return the caramelized onions to the skillet and add the minced garlic. Stir everything together.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water) to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
- Let everything simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or soy sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. A side of steamed vegetables would complement the dish nicely.
Tips for Success:
- Beef Cut Choice: Use cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or chuck for optimal tenderness and flavor. Chuck can be a little tougher, but it becomes wonderfully tender after slow cooking or simmering.
- Caramelizing the Onions: Don’t rush the caramelization process. It’s what gives the onions that deep, rich sweetness that makes this dish so special. If needed, you can add a splash of water to prevent the onions from burning.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice heat.
Why This Dish Works:
The combination of beef and onions is a timeless one, with the rich, savory flavor of the beef perfectly complemented by the sweet, tender onions. The broth helps bring everything together into a luscious sauce, while the garlic adds depth. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress.