Instructions:
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, mix the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
- Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, & sweetener.
- Add 1/2 cup of water or beef broth and mix well. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it is just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the sliced onions and stir-fry until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir-fry everything together until the beef and onions are well coated and the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve your oyster sauce beef and onion stir-fry with rice.
History of the Dish:
The oyster sauce beef stir-fry is a dish commonly found in Chinese cuisine. Oyster sauce, made from oysters, has been a staple in Chinese kitchens for centuries. It was created by Lee Kum Sheung in the late 19th century and has since become one of the most important ingredients in Chinese cooking. Beef stir-fries, on the other hand, have been a popular method of preparing meat in many Asian cultures, as they offer a quick, flavorful way to cook meat with vegetables. Over the years, various adaptations have been made, and this dish is now enjoyed worldwide.
Benefits of the Dish:
This stir-fry is a great source of protein from the beef and provides essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. The onions add fiber and antioxidants, and the garlic provides additional health benefits, including boosting the immune system and lowering cholesterol. Additionally, by using low-sodium soy sauce and controlling the amount of added sugar, this dish can be made relatively healthy while still being flavorful.
Methods:
There are many ways to enhance this recipe, such as adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms. You could also make it spicier by adding chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry. If you want a more intense umami flavor, you can incorporate a dash of fish sauce or more oyster sauce. The versatility of the stir-fry method allows for numerous variations to suit different tastes.
Nutrition:
This dish is a great balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. A typical serving provides:
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
These values may vary depending on the type of beef and the amount of oil used for cooking. The dish is high in protein and relatively low in carbs, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Conclusion:
The Oyster Sauce Beef & Onion Stir-Fry is an easy-to-make and flavor-packed dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender beef, sweet and savory oyster sauce, and aromatic garlic and onions creates a mouthwatering experience. Enjoy it with rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Lovers of quick, flavorful meals will absolutely adore this dish!