Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is one of my absolute favorites. It’s full of vibrant flavors and tender beef strips, making it a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or having friends over, this dish is sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something special without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or sauces!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Get this flavorful dish on your table in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The bold flavors of this dish are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! This recipe allows for plenty of substitutions and additions.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the marinade ahead of time, so all you have to do is stir-fry when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will make this dish shine! You don’t need anything fancy; just head to your kitchen, and you’ll likely find most of these items already waiting for you.

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 the Stir-Fry

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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are a few fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste if you like a bit of heat!
• Try different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki or sweet-and-sour sauce for a unique twist.

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade infuses the beef with delicious flavor and helps tenderize it. Toss your beef strips in the marinade and let them sit for 10-15 minutes while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized. This step is important because cooking the onions enhances their natural sweetness. Once done, season with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan. Set aside as they’ll be added back later!

Step 3: Sear the Beef

In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Carefully add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are nicely browned. It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan so that each piece gets that lovely sear we all love!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this luscious sauce over the beef in the skillet and let it simmer until it thickens up nicely. This creates that sticky coating that makes every bite so satisfying!

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Finally, add those sautéed onions back into the pan. Give everything a good stir to combine all those wonderful flavors. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that feels like dining out but is made right at home!

Enjoy making your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! It’s bound to become a new favorite in your household too!

Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Cooking this dish can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak is a hit!

• Use a Hot Pan: Starting with a hot pan is essential for achieving that delightful sear on the beef, sealing in juices and enhancing flavor.

• Marinate the Beef: Allowing the beef to marinate for 10-15 minutes makes it more tender and flavorful. The soy sauce and ginger work together to infuse delicious taste.

• Prep All Ingredients First: Having everything chopped and ready to go saves time and ensures your meal comes together quickly without any last-minute rush.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches if necessary prevents steaming. Overcrowding can make it difficult for the beef to brown properly, leading to a less flavorful dish.

• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients based on your preference! Adding more hoisin or rice vinegar can give you a sweeter or tangier flavor profile.

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving it up just right!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a lovely crunch and nutty aroma, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as an excellent base, soaking up the rich flavors of the sauce.

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: The crisp texture and vibrant color add nutrition and contrast nicely against the tender beef.

• Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful textural contrast and make for a fun appetizer alongside your main dish.

• Garlic Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in garlic butter provide an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with the savory steak.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family or friends with your homemade Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a quick and tasty dinner ready to go during busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled pepper steak in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.
• If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use other types of meat for Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional, chicken or tofu can also be great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for an extra boost of nutrition.

Can I skip the oyster sauce in this recipe?

Yes, you can omit the oyster sauce if you prefer. For a similar flavor profile, consider adding a bit more soy sauce or using a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! It’s a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch right to your table. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making it and feel free to share your experience—I would love to hear from you!