Spicy Steak Fajitas

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Better Than Takeout – Juicy, Savory & Irresistible

There’s something timeless about Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry. It’s one of those dishes that looks simple but delivers deep umami flavor, tender beef, glossy sauce, and that unmistakable wok-fried aroma that makes everyone hungry before it even reaches the table.

This dish is a staple in Chinese home cooking and restaurants alike. The secret lies in velveting the beef, using high heat, and balancing salty, sweet, and savory flavors. When done right, the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the onions are lightly caramelized yet still crisp, and the sauce coats everything beautifully.

Let’s make it properly — just like a Chinese kitchen would.

🥩 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Main Ingredients

  • 300 g sirloin steak
    (You may also use rib eye, flank steak, or blade steak)

  • ½ white or yellow onion, cut into chunky wedges

  • 4–5 slices fresh ginger

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced

  • 1 stalk green onion, cut into 2-inch pieces

Beef Marinade (Very Important!)

  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tsp cornstarch

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • ½ tsp sugar

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp water or stock

Stir Fry Sauce

  • 2 tbsp light soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color)

  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • ¼ cup water or beef stock

  • ½ tsp cornstarch

For Cooking

  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or peanut oil)

🔪 Step 1: Slice the Beef Correctly

Cutting the beef properly is half the success.

  1. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.

  2. Keep slices about ¼ inch thick — thin but not paper-thin.

👉 Cutting against the grain shortens muscle fibers, making the beef tender.

🥣 Step 2: Marinate the Beef (Velveting Technique)

  1. Add the sliced beef to a bowl.

  2. Add all marinade ingredients.

  3. Mix well until beef is lightly sticky.

  4. Let marinate for 20–30 minutes.

✨ This technique locks in moisture and keeps beef juicy even on high heat.

🔥 Step 3: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, mix:

  • Light soy sauce

  • Dark soy sauce

  • Oyster sauce

  • Sugar

  • Water/stock

  • Cornstarch

Stir well and set aside.

🍳 Step 4: Sear the Beef

  1. Heat a wok or large skillet on high heat.

  2. Add 1 tbsp oil.

  3. When oil is smoking hot, add beef in one layer.

  4. Sear for 30–40 seconds per side.

  5. Remove beef immediately and set aside.

⚠️ Do NOT overcook — beef will finish cooking later.

🧄 Step 5: Stir Fry Aromatics

  1. Add remaining oil to the same wok.

  2. Add ginger slices and garlic.

  3. Stir fry for 10–15 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Add onion wedges and stir fry for 1–2 minutes.

👉 Onions should soften slightly but stay crisp.

🥢 Step 6: Combine Everything

  1. Return beef to the wok.

  2. Add the prepared stir fry sauce.

  3. Toss everything quickly on high heat.

  4. Sauce will thicken and coat the beef in 30–45 seconds.

  5. Add green onions and toss once more.

🍽 Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot with:

  • Steamed white rice 🍚

  • Egg fried rice

  • Garlic noodles

The sauce is glossy, rich, and clings perfectly to the beef — exactly like your image 😍

⭐ Chef Tips for Perfect Results

  • Use very high heat — Chinese stir fry is fast cooking.

  • Always prepare everything before cooking.

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan.

  • Dark soy sauce is for color, not saltiness.

  • Resting the beef after searing keeps it juicy.

🔄 Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add dried red chilies or chili oil.

  • Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or snow peas.

  • Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice.

  • Saucy Style: Add 2–3 tbsp extra stock.

❓ Related Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Which beef cut is best for stir fry?

Sirloin, flank steak, rib eye, or blade steak all work well if sliced thinly against the grain.

Q2: Why is my beef chewy?

  • Overcooked

  • Not sliced against the grain

  • Skipped cornstarch in marinade

Q3: Can I make this without oyster sauce?

Yes, substitute with:

  • Extra soy sauce + a pinch of sugar

Q4: Can I store leftovers?

Yes, refrigerate up to 2 days. Reheat quickly on high heat.

Q5: Is this authentic Chinese style?

Yes — this follows classic Cantonese stir-fry technique used in restaurants.

  1. Serve with warm tortillas, sprinkle with grated cheese and your choice of optional toppings

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