Step 1: Marinating the Beef
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
- Marinate the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Preparing the Stir-Fry Ingredients
- Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the onion, bell peppers (if using), and green onions. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Step 3: Cooking the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat the Wok: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add Bell Peppers: If using, add the red and green bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Add the Beef Back: Return the cooked beef to the wok, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and beef broth or water. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the wok, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
- Add Green Onions: Stir in the green onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are tender.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve Hot: Serve the Beef and Onion Stir-Fry hot over cooked rice.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stir-Fry
- High Heat: Cook over high heat for a proper stir-fry, ensuring that the ingredients cook quickly and retain their texture.
- Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying goes quickly.
- Thinly Slice Beef: Thinly slicing the beef ensures it cooks quickly and remains tender.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your Beef and Onion Stir-Fry with these delicious sides:
- Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the savory sauce.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make a great appetizer or side.
- Chinese Broccoli: Stir-fried Chinese broccoli with garlic is a perfect vegetable side.
Final Thoughts
We hope this detailed guide has provided you with a fantastic recipe and inspired you to enjoy the process of cooking. Preparing a meal is an art, and every step, from marinating to stir-frying, is part of that art. Enjoy your delicious Chinese-style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry, and remember, the best meals are those made with love and care. Happy cooking!