Beef with Red Onions

Beef with Red Onions Recipe from China - Savory and Bold Flavors

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef with Red Onions is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the sweet and slightly sharp taste of red onions. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal. The addition of a light marinade and a savory sauce enhances the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables, making this dish a favorite among many.

History

The origins of Beef with Red Onions can be traced back to Asian cuisine, where stir-frying, a cooking technique used in this recipe, is a fundamental method. This technique allows for quick cooking at high temperatures, preserving the texture and nutrients of the ingredients. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, incorporating local ingredients and flavors, making it a versatile recipe that has been adapted by different cultures around the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) beef (flank or top sirloin steak), cut into julienne
2 red onions, chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 piece ginger, sliced
2 green onions, sliced diagonally

Marinade

1 egg white
2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp cooking wine
1 tbsp cornstarch
A few drops of sesame oil

Sauce

3 tbsp dark soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp sherry
0.25 cup water (if desired)
oil for cooking

How to prepare

Cut the beef across the grain. Add the marinade ingredients and marinate the beef for about 15 minutes.
While the beef is marinating, prepare the vegetables and sauce.
Heat a wok and add 2 tbsp of oil, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
When the oil is ready, add the ginger and garlic.
Stir-fry briefly and add the onions. Stir-fry until the onions are tender but not overcooked. Remove and set aside.
Add oil to the wok. Add the beef and stir-fry until it changes color.
If desired, add water at this point to make a gravy.
Return the vegetables to the wok and mix well.
Add the green onion. Serve hot with rice.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or fresh chilies to the stir-fry. You can also substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter variation. Adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, can add color and additional nutrients to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's crucial to cut it against the grain. Marinating the beef not only adds flavor but also tenderizes it. When stir-frying, make sure the wok is hot before adding the oil and ingredients. This will help to sear the beef quickly and keep the vegetables crisp. Lastly, adding the green onions at the end of cooking ensures they retain their color and slight crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe. It involves cooking food quickly at high temperatures with a small amount of oil. This method helps to retain the flavors and textures of the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have light soy sauce, you can use all-purpose soy sauce but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish. Sherry can be substituted with rice wine or a bit of vinegar for acidity. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the beef and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This will make the cooking process quicker and more efficient.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Beef with Red Onions on a platter, garnished with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of elegance. A side of jasmine rice or noodles can complement the dish beautifully.

Pairing Recommendations

A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, pairs well with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a green tea or a lightly flavored sparkling water can complement the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until heated through. Adding a little water can help to revive the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef with Red Onions, without considering any side dishes like rice, contains approximately 300-400 calories. The exact number will vary based on the cut of beef used and the amount of cooking oil.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the onions and the small amount of sugar in the sauce. The total carbohydrate content will largely depend on whether you serve the dish with rice or another carbohydrate side.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the oil used for cooking and the natural fats in the beef. Using a lean cut of beef, such as sirloin, and controlling the amount of cooking oil can help keep the fat content moderate.

Proteins

Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This dish provides a substantial amount of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Beef with Red Onions is rich in vitamins and minerals. Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while onions provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. Together, these ingredients contribute to a nutritious dish that supports overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (in the soy sauce) and may contain gluten (in the soy sauce and cooking wine), which are common allergens. It's also important to note the egg white in the marinade for those with egg allergies.

Summary

Overall, Beef with Red Onions is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their intake.

Summary

Beef with Red Onions is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines tender beef with the sweet and tangy taste of red onions. With its rich protein content and essential vitamins and minerals, it makes for a satisfying meal that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to tasting her latest creations. On this particular day, she was preparing a mouthwatering dish that filled the entire house with a tantalizing aroma.

Curious about what she was cooking, I asked Maria what the secret ingredient was. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she handed me a piece of paper with the recipe for Beef with Red Onions written in her elegant handwriting. She told me that this was a family recipe passed down from generations, and she was happy to share it with me.

I couldn't believe my luck! I had always admired Maria's cooking skills and now I had the opportunity to learn one of her most prized recipes. I thanked her profusely and promised to make the dish for my family soon.

As soon as I returned home, I gathered all the ingredients needed for the recipe. I had to admit, some of the ingredients were unfamiliar to me, but I was determined to master this dish. I started by marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The smell of the marinade alone was enough to make my mouth water.

While the beef was marinating, I thinly sliced the red onions and sautéed them in a generous amount of olive oil until they were caramelized and sweet. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly, and I knew that this dish was going to be a hit.

Once the beef was done marinating, I seared it in a hot pan until it was browned on all sides. The sizzling sound of the beef as it cooked was music to my ears. I then added the caramelized red onions to the pan and let the flavors meld together.

As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to the day when Maria had shared the recipe with me. I felt a sense of gratitude towards her for trusting me with this family treasure. I knew that every time I made this dish, I would think of her and the wonderful memories we had shared in her kitchen.

Finally, after a few more minutes of simmering, the Beef with Red Onions was ready. I plated it up with a side of steamed rice and garnished it with fresh cilantro. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The tender beef paired perfectly with the sweet and savory red onions, creating a harmony of tastes that danced on my taste buds. I closed my eyes and savored every mouthful, knowing that this dish would soon become a favorite in my household.

From that day on, Beef with Red Onions became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for every special occasion, for family gatherings, and for days when I needed a comforting meal. Each time I cooked it, I felt a connection to Maria and the love she had shared with me through this recipe.

And so, the story of how I learned to make Beef with Red Onions will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of friendship, of sharing, and of the joy that comes from creating beautiful meals to nourish the ones we love. And for that, I am eternally grateful.