Beef and Onion Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce

Description

Tender beef slices are quickly stir-fried with sweet onions and savory oyster sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that takes just minutes to prepare but tastes like restaurant-quality takeout.

Ingredients For Beef and Onion Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce

  • 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced

  • 2 medium onions, sliced

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon water

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Green onions or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Beef

    • In a bowl, combine sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a tablespoon of water. Mix well and let it rest for 10–15 minutes.

    • This helps tenderize the meat and lock in flavor.

  2. Prepare the Sauce

    • In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, a pinch of sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.

  3. Cook the Beef

    • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.

    • Add the beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

  4. Stir-Fry the Onions

    • In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.

    • Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add sliced onions. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until slightly soft.

  5. Combine and Finish

    • Return beef to the pan.

    • Pour in the oyster sauce mixture and toss everything together until the beef is coated and cooked through (about 1–2 more minutes).

    • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

  6. Serve

    • Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

    • Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.

  • Use a very hot pan to get that classic stir-fry sear.

  • You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oyster sauce and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Tips

  • Velveting technique: Marinating beef in cornstarch and soy sauce keeps it juicy and soft.

  • Quick cooking: Don’t overcook the beef—it should stay tender and slightly pink in the center before combining with sauce.

  • Meal prep: Slice and marinate beef ahead of time for fast weeknight cooking.

Servings

✅ Makes 3–4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: 820mg

Benefits

  • High in protein — great for muscle repair and energy.

  • Iron-rich — supports red blood cell health.

  • Quick and easy — done in under 20 minutes.

  • Versatile — pairs well with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.

Q & A

Q: Can I use another cut of beef?
A: Yes! Flank, ribeye, or sirloin all work well. Just slice thinly across the grain.

Q: Can I make this without oyster sauce?
A: Substitute with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of honey for a similar flavor.

Q: Can I meal-prep this dish?
A: Absolutely. Cook and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a skillet or microwave.

Q: What can I serve with it besides rice?
A: Try quinoa, stir-fried noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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