This Classic Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a savory sauce together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share, this recipe delivers a delicious and customizable experience.
The marinade and sauce add layers of flavor, while high-heat cooking seals in the beef’s juices and infuses the dish with a smoky wok essence. Paired with steamed rice, this stir fry makes for a balanced and wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: A balance of savory, sweet, and umami notes.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
• 300 g sirloin steak (or rib eye, flank, or blade steak)
• ½ white or yellow onion, sliced
• 4–5 slices ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
• 1 stalk green onion, cut into 2-inch pieces
For the Marinade:
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ tbsp Shaoxing cooking wine
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch (added after marinating)
• 1 tbsp oil (added after marinating)
For the Sauce:
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1½ tbsp oyster sauce
• ½ tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tbsp Shaoxing cooking wine (or dry sherry/rice wine)
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
• ½ cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
1. Peel and slice the onion into thin segments. Mince or slice the garlic and ginger. Cut the green onion into 2-inch segments, slicing the thicker white parts lengthwise.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
1. Thinly slice the beef against the grain. For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, water, and sesame oil with the beef. Marinate for 15 minutes.
3. After marinating, stir in the cornstarch to coat the beef, then mix in the oil to lock in moisture.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a small bowl, blend the soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add sugar, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce (if using), and water. Stir well and set aside.
Step 4: Stir Fry
1. Heat a large frying pan or wok over high heat. Add oil once hot.
2. Spread the marinated beef in the pan and sear until about 90% cooked (2–4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Add more oil to the pan. Sauté the ginger slices until slightly browned. Add garlic and onions, cooking until softened and lightly browned.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
1. Push the aromatics to the side of the pan. Stir the sauce to ensure the cornstarch is mixed, then pour it into the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens and darkens.
2. Mix the aromatics into the sauce. Return the beef to the pan and add the green onions. Stir fry everything together for about 1 minute until combined and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
1. Serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy your flavorful stir fry!
Tips
• Meat Options: Substitute chicken, pork, or tofu for the beef.
• Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
• Sauce Adjustments: Sweeten the sauce with honey or add spice with chili flakes.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Classic Beef Stir Fry combines simplicity and bold flavors, making it a go-to recipe for anyone craving a satisfying and wholesome meal!
