Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the bold and vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine straight to your kitchen, then you’re in for a treat with this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. This recipe is one of those all-time favorites that never fails to impress at the dinner table. It combines tender strips of beef, crisp onions, and a savory sauce that’s simply delightful. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this meal is sure to become a staple in your home.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your own stove! Plus, it pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in no time—perfect for those busy evenings when you need a tasty dinner fast!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and tender beef. It’s a surefire hit for any family gathering.
• Flexible Ingredients: Adjust the veggies or sauces based on what you have at home. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra and enjoy leftovers for lunch! This dish reheats beautifully, keeping its flavors intact.
• High in Protein: Packed with protein from the beef, this meal keeps you satisfied without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create this amazing dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce
• 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce
• 2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional)
• 2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is how flexible it can be! You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add crunch and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, toss in some sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use low-sodium sauces: To make this dish lighter, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and hoisin.

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade infuses the beef with rich flavors while it rests. Toss those beef strips into the bowl and let them soak up all that goodness for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced onions and sauté them until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. This step is important because caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness! Once they’re done, season them with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

In the same pan, crank up the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, add those marinated beef strips. Stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re browned. Getting that nice sear adds depth to your dish!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your beef is cooking away, grab a small bowl and whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over your seared beef and let it simmer until it thickens up nicely—this will coat your beef in that rich flavor we all love!

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add those sautéed onions back into the pan with your beef. Stir well to combine everything so each bite is packed with flavor. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for an irresistible meal!

Enjoy your homemade Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions—it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze, especially with a few insider tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use high-quality beef: Opting for sirloin or ribeye will ensure your steak is tender and flavorful. The better the meat, the more delicious your dish will taste.
• Marinate longer for flavor: If time allows, let your beef sit in the marinade for longer than 15 minutes—up to an hour in the fridge. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
• Cook over high heat: A hot skillet helps achieve that lovely sear on your beef while keeping it juicy inside. This technique also promotes quick cooking, so everything stays crisp and fresh.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the beef in batches rather than all at once. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, resulting in less desirable texture.
• Add veggies for color: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. This not only enhances presentation but also boosts the meal’s health factor.

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions beautifully can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas that will elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions adds a fresh crunch and bright color to your dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can give a delightful nutty flavor while also adding visual appeal.
• Cilantro leaves: Fresh cilantro brings a vibrant touch and aromatic quality that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This light and fluffy rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all that delicious sauce from the pepper steak.
• Stir-fried bok choy: Quickly stir-frying bok choy with garlic creates a crisp yet tender side that adds both color and nutrition.
• Vegetable spring rolls: These crispy bites filled with fresh vegetables make for an excellent appetizer or side that balances out the main course.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the warm spices in your stir-fry.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends alike with this delightful Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components ahead of time and enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or even seitan for a plant-based version that still delivers on flavor.

What should I serve with Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad to balance the savory flavors.

How can I adjust the spice level in Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

You can add sliced bell peppers or fresh chili peppers during cooking for extra heat or reduce the amount of black pepper and omit any spicy elements for a milder taste.

Can I use other vegetables in my Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

Yes! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions as much as I do! It’s such a delightful blend of flavors and textures that really captures the essence of Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re whipping it up for family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, I’m sure it will become a beloved recipe in your home. Happy cooking!