Freshness and Selection of Onions
Yellow or white onions work best for this dish. They offer a balance of sweetness and sharpness that complements the savory beef. Ensure the onions are firm and free from soft spots for the best texture and flavor.
Essential Sauces and Seasonings
Soy sauce and oyster sauce provide the base for the savory flavor, while Shaoxing wine adds a subtle depth. Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce and help the beef develop a beautiful sear during cooking.
3. Preparing the Ingredients
Prepping the Beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Marinating the beef with a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch helps to tenderize it and enhance its flavor.
Slicing Onions
Cut the onions into thin wedges. This shape allows them to cook quickly while maintaining a pleasant texture that complements the beef.
Ingredients for the Marinade
The marinade for the beef includes:
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
Additional Vegetables and Aromatics
Garlic and ginger are essential aromatics for this dish, providing depth and complexity to the flavor. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and taste.
4. Cooking Techniques
Marinating the Beef
Combine the sliced beef with the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Stir-Frying Basics
Stir-frying is all about quick, high-heat cooking. A wok is ideal, but a large skillet can also work. Preheat the wok until it’s very hot before adding oil. This helps to sear the beef quickly and keep it tender.
Achieving the Perfect Sear
Add the marinated beef to the hot wok in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for a minute before stirring. This technique ensures a good sear and develops a rich flavor. Remove the beef once it’s browned and set aside.
Combining Ingredients
Add more oil to the wok if needed and stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the onions and cook until they start to soften. Return the beef to the wok, add the oyster sauce, and stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
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