Chinese Beef with Oyster Sauce is a flavorful and quick dish that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your table.

Thinly sliced beef is stir-fried to perfection, coated in a rich, savory oyster sauce with garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wok or large skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula

Ingredients Overview

Beef: Use tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced for quick cooking.
Oyster Sauce: The star of the dish, offering a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and green onions add depth to the sauce.
Vegetables: Optional, but broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work well as add-ins.

Ingredients

For the Beef

1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup beef broth or water
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Stir-Fry

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

Marinate the Beef
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef and mix well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, beef broth (or water), and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
Cook the Beef
- Heat a wok or skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir-fry the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes until browned and just cooked. Remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Aromatics
- Add the remaining oil to the wok. Sauté garlic, ginger, and white parts of the green onions for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine Everything
- Return the beef to the wok. Pour in the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the green onion tops for garnish.
Serve
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is straightforward: marinate the beef, stir-fry in stages, and create a sauce that ties everything together in minutes. The key is working quickly with high heat.

Recipe Tips

Freeze the beef for 15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut thinly.
Use a high-smoke-point oil, like vegetable or canola, for stir-frying.
Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to suit your taste.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
Stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or snow peas
Hot and sour soup or egg drop soup for a complete meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are excellent substitutes.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar as an alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.

How do I make it spicier?
Add chili flakes or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chinese Beef with Oyster Sauce fresh from the wok with rice or noodles, and pair it with a crisp cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables for balance.

Enjoy this quick and delicious homemade takeout classic!