What Is Beef Foo Yung?
Beef Foo Yung (also spelled Beef Egg Foo Young) is a beloved Chinese-American dish that transforms simple ingredients — eggs, vegetables, and beef — into a savory, fluffy omelet-style meal. Traditionally found on Chinese takeout menus, this recipe combines scrambled eggs, stir-fried beef, and vegetables into a crispy, golden pancake served with a rich brown gravy.
This easy beef foo yung recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Foo Yung Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in 30 minutes
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Uses pantry staples
- Protein-packed: High in eggs and beef
- Versatile: Swap in shrimp, chicken, or tofu
- Authentic taste: Balanced umami, savory sauce
Ingredients for Beef Foo Yung
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic beef foo yung at home:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | ½ lb (225 g) | Lean or regular |
| Eggs | 4 large | Whisked |
| Bean sprouts | 1 cup | Fresh or canned |
| Green onions | 2 | Sliced thin |
| Onion | ½ small | Finely chopped |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Low-sodium preferred |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp | Adds umami depth |
| Cornstarch | 1 tsp | For thickening |
| Sesame oil | ½ tsp | Optional for aroma |
| Cooking oil | As needed | For frying |
How to Make Beef Foo Yung (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
In a wok or large skillet:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped onions and cook until softened.
- Add soy sauce and oyster sauce, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Egg Batter
In a mixing bowl:
- Whisk together eggs, bean sprouts, and green onions.
- Add the cooked beef mixture and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir well to combine.
3. Fry the Foo Yung Patties
- Heat a thin layer of oil in the pan over medium heat.
- Pour ½ cup of the mixture per patty.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides — about 3–4 minutes per side.
Pro Tip: To keep foo yung fluffy, don’t overmix the eggs. Gentle folding retains air and texture.
How to Make the Classic Foo Yung Gravy
A rich brown gravy is what completes the dish! Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- Optional: dash of sesame oil
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, bring the broth to a boil.
- Add soy sauce and oyster sauce.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
- Pour over the fried beef foo yung before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your beef foo yung hot, with gravy poured over the top. It pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried rice or chow mein
- Stir-fried vegetables or bok choy
- A drizzle of chili oil for spice
For a full Chinese takeout-style dinner, try pairing it with Sweet and Sour Chicken or Garlic Stir-Fried Green Beans (see our related recipes).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
(Values approximate; may vary by ingredients used.)
Common Questions About Beef Foo Yung
Is beef foo yung the same as an omelet?
It’s similar but more flavorful — foo yung includes a soy-based gravy and stir-fried fillings, giving it a Chinese fusion twist.
Can I use leftover beef?
Absolutely! Leftover roast beef, steak, or even ground beef can be repurposed into foo yung with minimal prep.
Can beef foo yung be frozen?
Yes — let patties cool, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best texture.
What’s the difference between Foo Yung and Chow Mein?
Foo Yung is egg-based, while Chow Mein centers around noodles. Both are Chinese-American staples often served together.
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Foo Yung
- Use high heat for crispy edges and a soft center.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra texture.
- For a low-carb version, skip the gravy and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Don’t skip the oyster sauce — it’s key to that restaurant-style flavor.
Variations You’ll Love
- Shrimp Foo Yung – Swap beef for shrimp for a lighter version.
- Chicken Foo Yung – Use cooked shredded chicken breast.
- Vegetarian Foo Yung – Replace meat with tofu or extra veggies.
These variations follow the same egg base — just modify the fillings and sauce to taste.
Conclusion: Bring Takeout Home with Easy Beef Foo Yung
This easy beef foo yung recipe is your gateway to making classic Chinese takeout comfort food right at home. It’s crispy, savory, and deeply satisfying, blending simple ingredients into something special.
Next time you crave takeout, skip the delivery — whip up this homemade beef foo yung for a delicious, authentic experience you’ll want to make again and again.