Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
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Beef and onion stir-fry is a dish that beautifully combines tender strips of meat with the aromatic crunch of onions and vibrant bell peppers, all tied together with a savory sauce. This recipe not only satisfies the hunger for a hearty meal but does so in record time. As someone who’s whipped this up countless times on busy weeknights, it strikes a perfect balance between flavor and ease, making it a go-to for families and anyone craving a taste of home. If you enjoy Asian-inspired meals, this beef stir-fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why should you choose to make beef and onion stir-fry? For starters, this recipe is incredibly quick, making it the ideal solution when you’re racing against the clock. You can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknight dinners. Furthermore, it’s budget-friendly; flank steak stretches a long way when paired with fresh vegetables. Parents will appreciate that it’s kid-approved too! The savory flavors combined with the vibrant colors make it an enticing option for even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
“This stir-fry was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors meld together perfectly, and it was so quick to make. It’s definitely going to be a regular on our table!” — Jamie T.
The cooking process explained
Beef and onion stir-fry is a simple dish that comes together in just a few steps. You’ll start by marinating the flank steak to soak up delicious flavors. As the meat absorbs the marinade, you’ll prep your veggies, ensuring everything is sliced and ready to go. Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s just a matter of stir-frying them in a hot pan until crispy and tender. The entire process is efficient yet rewarding, resulting in a colorful, flavorful meal in no time.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients before you begin:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain (Trim any excess fat)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Low-sodium is a great option)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (This will be used for marinating)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (Neutral oil with a high smoke point works well)
- 1 large onion, sliced (Yellow or sweet onions are ideal)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (Any color you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (Fresh ginger adds the best flavor)
- 1/4 cup beef broth (You can substitute with water plus a splash of soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (Your choice for serving)
Step-by-step instructions
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef marinates, slice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic and ginger.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat until shimmering.
Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until fully browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crispy.
Combine and Finish: Return the beef to the skillet along with the beef broth, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to heat through.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
How to plate and pair
Plate your beef and onion stir-fry on a bed of fluffy cooked rice or steaming noodles for a satisfying meal. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an elegant finish, and consider including a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For those looking to enhance the meal further, a dollop of chili sauce or a drizzle of sriracha can add a spicy kick.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your beef and onion stir-fry, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning to save it for longer, consider freezing the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. Remember to reheat thoroughly; the microwaving method usually works best for quick meals, but you can also reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warm.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure the best texture for your beef, slice against the grain, which helps to break down the muscle fibers and keep the meat tender. If you want to save more time, feel free to prep the veggies ahead of time or even purchase pre-sliced vegetables from the store. Lastly, be cautious not to overcrowd the pan during cooking; doing so could lead to steaming instead of stir-frying!
Flavor swaps
Do you want to put your own spin on this recipe? Consider adding additional vegetables like carrots or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. You can also switch up the proteins; chicken or tofu make excellent alternatives. If you’re in the mood for something spicier, toss in some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapenos during the cooking process.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time for this beef and onion stir-fry is about 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.Can I substitute the flank steak?
Absolutely! You can use sirloin, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.How do I reheat leftovers safely?
Ensure that leftovers are warmed to an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use the microwave or reheat on the stove for even warmth.
This beef and onion stir-fry recipe delivers big flavors effortlessly, making it a standout choice for any night of the week. With its customizable nature and quick prep, you may find this to be your new favorite go-to dish!
Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- While the beef marinates, slice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic and ginger.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat until shimmering.
- Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until fully browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crispy.
- Return the beef to the skillet along with the beef broth, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
