Beef and Onions
Beef and onions is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of succulent beef and tender onions, creating a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and fulfilling. Known for its simplicity yet hearty nature, this recipe will make any dinner feel special.
This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about creating a wholesome meal that warms the heart and the home. The combination of juicy, marinated beef with the sweetness of caramelized onions creates a delightful contrast that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Why make this recipe
Making beef and onions allows you to explore the depths of flavor that come from such a straightforward technique. The natural sweetness of the onions adds a luxurious element to the beef, and the addition of soy sauce enhances this further by bringing a savory umami quality to the dish. It is also a fantastic way to utilize cuts of beef like rump steak, which can be incredibly tender when cooked properly. By following this recipe, you can impress family and friends while providing a comforting meal that satisfies the hunger pangs and fulfills that craving for something savory.
In addition, preparing this dish can be a wonderful opportunity to delve into techniques like sautéing and simmering, both of which intensify flavors and improve the overall dish. Beef and onions is also quite versatile, as it can easily be served over rice, noodles, or even alongside crusty bread for soaking up those delicious juices. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to incorporate your preferred spices or add vegetables, turning it into a personalized family favorite that can fit any palate.
How to make Beef and Onions
The process begins by heating sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat. This oil not only provides a neutral flavor but also elevates the dish by helping to caramelize the onions. Once the oil is hot, you add the sliced onions and garlic, allowing them to soften and become slightly translucent, which takes about three minutes. The sweetness of the onions really starts to develop at this point, setting the stage for the next ingredients.
Next, it’s time for the star of the dish—the rump steak. You’ll increase the heat to high and add the beef strips, cooking them for about five minutes. Here, it’s crucial to give the beef a good sear so that it locks in moisture, which ultimately results in a delightful texture. As the beef cooks, be sure to stir frequently; this helps ensure that everything cooks evenly and that the flavors meld together beautifully. After the beef has cooked, you sprinkle in the cornstarch, which acts as a thickening agent and gives the dish a nice sheen.
Following this step, the balance of flavors comes into play. You add sugar, soy sauce, and water, and then reduce the heat to low. Allowing the mixture to simmer for about fifteen minutes not only melds the flavors but also ensures that the beef tenderizes. The result is a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly glazes the beef and coats the onions. Just before serving, garnish everything with fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and additional flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 onions (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (sliced)
- 3 tbsp sunflower oil
- 1⅛ lb (500 g) rump steak (cut into pieces/strips)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) soy sauce
- Scant 1/2 cup (100 mL) water
- 2 sprigs cilantro (to finish)
Directions
- Heat the sunflower oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add the rump steak and cook over high heat for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch.
- Add the sugar, soy sauce, and water.
- Reduce to low heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finish with cilantro and serve.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
How to serve Beef and Onions
Beef and onions can be served in several delicious ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. One of the most popular options is to serve it over a bed of steamed rice. The fluffy rice absorbs the rich sauce, making for a comforting and filling dinner. Another delightful companion could be a bowl of noodles; toss them in the pan for a quick stir-fry effect that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
For a lighter twist, consider serving the beef and onions with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of the greens will balance the heartiness of the dish while adding the perfect crunch. Additionally, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls can work wonders at soaking up any leftover sauce, adding another layer of satisfaction to your meal.
How to store Beef and Onions
If you happen to have leftovers, storing beef and onions is quite straightforward. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Beef and onions can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it on the stove or microwave as desired.
Tips to make Beef and Onions
To elevate your beef and onions dish even further, consider marinating the beef ahead of time in the soy sauce and a splash of additional seasonings like ginger or sesame oil. This adds depth and complexity to the flavors. Choosing high-quality beef can also make a significant difference in the final outcome of the dish, so opting for well-marbled cuts can enhance tenderness.
Adjusting cook times is essential based on the thickness of your beef cuts, as thinner strips will require less time to cook through. For an extra kick, you might experiment with adding a bit of red pepper flakes or chili sauce for heat, especially if you enjoy a spicy flavor profile. Don’t forget that using fresh herbs at the end can brighten up the dish and provide a beautiful freshness that contrasts well with the richness of the beef.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1200 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, you can use other tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made a day in advance for flavors to develop.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
A: While this recipe typically uses beef, you can substitute the meat with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian adaptation.
Beef and Onions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces onions (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (sliced)
- 3 tbsp sunflower oil For cooking
- 1⅛ lb rump steak (cut into pieces/strips) Can substitute with other tender cuts
- 1 tbsp cornstarch Act as a thickening agent
- 1 tsp sugar To balance flavors
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- Scant 1/2 cup water Use to adjust consistency
- 2 sprigs cilantro (to finish) For garnish
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat the sunflower oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add the rump steak and cook over high heat for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch.
- Add the sugar, soy sauce, and water.
- Reduce to low heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finish with cilantro and serve.
