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Tender Chinese Beef Strips with Caramelized Onions


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

Tender Chinese beef strips are quickly seared until beautifully browned, then tossed with sweet caramelized onions and a glossy garlic ginger sauce. The combination of soy, oyster, hoisin, sesame oil, and fresh aromatics creates a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice. This easy 30-minute dinner is ideal for busy weeknights or a flavorful homemade takeout-style meal.


Ingredients

  • 400g beef steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1 small red chili, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon crispy fried shallots
  • Steamed jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Place the thinly sliced beef in a bowl and toss with cornstarch, white pepper, and black pepper until lightly coated.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and beef broth until smooth.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
  4. Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned around the edges.
  5. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
  6. Add the remaining vegetable oil to the same wok.
  7. Add the sliced onion and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized while retaining some crispness.
  8. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  9. Return the beef to the wok and toss it together with the onions, garlic, and ginger.
  10. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until thickened, glossy, and coating the beef and onions.
  11. Add the sliced green onions and cook for another 30 seconds.
  12. Remove from the heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced red chili, and crispy fried shallots.
  13. Serve immediately over hot steamed jasmine rice with plenty of the glossy sauce and caramelized onions.

Notes

  • Serve the beef hot over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
  • Pair it with steamed broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, or stir-fried vegetables.
  • Add extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds just before serving for freshness and crunch.
  • For more heat, add additional red chili or a small amount of chili crisp.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water or beef broth.
  • Avoid overcooking during reheating, as the beef can become tough.
  • The beef and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
  • For meal prep, store the beef separately from the rice and vegetables when possible.
  • Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, although the onions may lose some of their original crisp texture.