If you have a craving for a dish that’s quick to whip up yet deeply satisfying, this Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender strips of marinated beef mingling with soft, silky scrambled eggs, all kissed by the rich flavors of soy and oyster sauce. It’s a simple, comforting dish that combines protein and flavor in a way that makes weeknight dinners feel like a treat. Whether you’re new to stir-fries or a seasoned cook looking for something fresh, this recipe is an absolute winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of texture, flavor, and color in this Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe. From the tender beef to the fragrant green onions, every component contributes something special.
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain: Choosing a tender cut and slicing it thin ensures quick cooking and a velvety bite.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a deep, savory umami flavor that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and richness that balances the soy.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and gives it a lovely glossy coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil: Offers a toasty, nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper: A gentle heat that adds warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Essential for stir-frying the beef and eggs with a nice crisp edge.
- 5 large eggs, lightly beaten: The star behind those pillowy soft curds that perfectly complement the beef.
- 2 green onions, sliced: A fresh, mild onion flavor that adds bright color and a crisp finish.
- Optional: extra sesame oil or chili oil for serving: For an extra flavor kick or silky finish, these oils on the side are pure magic.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure each piece is well-coated. Let this marinate for about 15 minutes; this step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and infuses flavor right to the core.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is just cooked through but still juicy. Avoid overcooking here to keep the texture tender.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Push the beef to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Let the eggs sit undisturbed for a few seconds to begin setting. Then gently scramble them with a spatula, creating soft curds that are almost silky—this step is where the magic really starts to show.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Once the eggs are softly scrambled but still tender, fold the beef back in and stir everything together just to combine. This final stir lets the flavors mingle without overcooking the eggs, keeping the texture light and fluffy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. The green onions add a fresh, mildly pungent bite that contrasts beautifully with the savory umami notes. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
The simple green onions used as a garnish elevate this dish by adding a pop of color and freshness. If you like a little extra heat or nutty flavor, drizzle some sesame oil or chili oil over the top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines when paired with steaming hot white rice, which soaks up all those wonderful juices. Alternatively, try serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a light cucumber salad to add some crunch and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef and egg mixture over fragrant jasmine rice inside lettuce cups for a handheld delight. Or, use it as a filling in a warm pancake or wrap for a quick lunch that feels anything but ordinary.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The eggs may firm up after cooling, but gently reheating will bring back most of their softness.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use a freezer-safe container, and when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the tender textures.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir-fry in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to gently bring the eggs back to a soft texture. Microwaving works too but keep the time short to avoid rubbery eggs.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin are ideal for tenderness and quick cooking, you can substitute with ribeye or even skirt steak as long as you slice thinly against the grain to keep things tender.
Is it okay to use egg whites only?
You can, but the yolks add richness and creaminess that enhance the texture and flavor of the scrambled eggs, making the dish comforting and balanced.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos and double-check that the oyster sauce is gluten-free. This keeps all the flavor intact without gluten worries.
Can I add vegetables to this stir-fry?
Definitely! Adding quick-cooking veggies like snap peas, bell peppers, or even baby spinach can add great color and nutrition without complicating the recipe.
What’s the best way to get soft, silky eggs?
Lightly beating the eggs just before cooking and optionally adding a splash of milk or cream will give you soft curds. Cooking the eggs gently and briefly in the hot pan prevents overcooking and keeps that silky texture.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the warm hug of this Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe when you want a meal that’s fast, flavorful, and downright satisfying. With such simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it invites you to get creative while delivering cozy, bold Asian flavors in every bite. Give it a try and watch this become a beloved staple in your home kitchen!
Print
Chinese Beef and Egg Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chinese Beef and Eggs is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish combining tender marinated beef with soft scrambled eggs, garnished with fresh green onions. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be served with steamed rice for a complete dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 5 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: extra sesame oil or chili oil for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
- Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is just cooked through but still tender. Push the beef to one side of the pan to make space for the eggs.
- Cook the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet. Let them sit undisturbed for a few seconds until they start to set, then gently scramble to form soft curds without overcooking.
- Combine and Finish: Stir the cooked beef and scrambled eggs together until just combined. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the dish and serve immediately. Optionally, drizzle with extra sesame oil or chili oil for added aroma and heat. Best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Notes
- For a silkier egg texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the eggs before beating.
- This dish cooks very quickly, so prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the process.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce if you need to keep the dish gluten-free.
