If you love the irresistible flavors of Chinese street food, then you are in for a real treat with this Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe. This dish combines tender, marinated beef cubes threaded onto skewers and cooked to perfection, delivering a mouthwatering combination of sweet, savory, and subtly spiced notes. The magic lies in the marinade soaking deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you broil or air-fry them, these skewers bring a perfect balance of charred edges and juicy centers that will have you coming back for more.

Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role. You only need a handful of accessible items, but together they create that authentic, luscious flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

1 pound sirloin beef (or an inexpensive cut with lots of connective tissue like top blade roast): Provides the perfect texture for skewering and absorbing the marinade flavors.
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Adds a sweet, tangy depth that gives the beef its signature Chinese flavor.
2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the savory sauces and helps caramelize the meat during cooking.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a rich umami punch that amps up the overall taste.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides saltiness and complexity, enhancing the beef’s natural flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize the meat and contributes to a slight velvety texture on the surface.
1 teaspoon Chinese cooking wine (or water): Assists in tenderizing the meat and adding subtle aroma.
¼ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder: This aromatic blend introduces warm, fragrant notes key to any Chinese marinade.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Tenderizes the beef by breaking down muscle fibers for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Make Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Tenderize the Beef

Start by chopping your beef into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place the cubes inside a large plastic bag, then use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the beef for a few minutes. This process breaks down the muscle fibers and starts the tenderizing magic, which is essential for that perfect bite.

Step 2: Create and Apply the Marinade

In a separate bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, Chinese cooking wine, Chinese five-spice powder, and baking soda until fully combined. Pour this marinade over the tenderized beef in the plastic bag, seal it up, and massage everything together by hand. Refrigerate the bag for at least 8 hours; overnight is even better to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Skewer the Beef

Once marinated, thread the beef cubes onto skewers, spacing them about ¼ inch apart to ensure even cooking and to allow heat to circulate around each piece. Do not pack them tightly as space is crucial for that perfect char.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

You have two excellent methods here. To broil, preheat your broiler to 500°F and place the skewers on a foil-lined rack at the upper-middle rack position. Brush them lightly with oil and cook 5-7 minutes per side until beautifully charred. Alternatively, for a quicker and mess-free option, air-fry at 400°F by oil-spraying the basket and skewers, then cooking 5 minutes each side, watching for that perfect caramelized finish.

How to Serve Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your beef on a stick with fresh toppings like finely chopped green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a few strands of fresh cilantro. These touches add refreshing bursts of color and texture that complement the savory meat perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs brilliantly with simple steamed jasmine rice or fluffy fried rice to soak up every bit of the delicious marinade drippings. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables, like bok choy or snap peas, for a vibrant, healthy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange the skewers vertically in a sturdy glass or ceramic jar, garnished with fresh herbs and a wedge of lime on the side. It makes for a stunning appetizer display or party platter that invites everyone to dig in with excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe skewers should be refrigerated in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days and make for convenient, flavorful snack or meal additions.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep safely for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to retain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or use an air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp the exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to dry out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while sirloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can use other cuts like top blade roast. Just ensure they have enough connective tissue to stay juicy and flavorful after marinating and cooking.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef for 8 hours?

Marinating for at least 8 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and tenderizes the meat properly. You can marinate longer, up to 24 hours, for even better results, but less than 8 hours may not yield the same depth of flavor.

What if I don’t have Chinese cooking wine?

If you don’t have Chinese cooking wine, water can be used as a substitute, but it will slightly reduce the authentic aroma. A dry sherry or a mild white wine can also work as alternatives.

Can I grill the beef skewers instead of broiling or air-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling is a fantastic option that adds wonderful smoky flavor. Just cook over medium-high heat and turn frequently to avoid burning, aiming for a nice char while keeping the beef juicy.

Are there vegetarian alternatives to this recipe?

While this recipe is beef-based, you can experiment with firm tofu or seitan marinated in the same sauce and cooked similarly to enjoy a vegetarian-friendly version packed with flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about making this Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe at home. With just simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy an authentic-tasting dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Gather your loved ones, try this recipe soon, and watch it become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!

Chinese Beef On A Stick Recipe