Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your family or guests, look no further than my Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. This dish is a family favorite that combines tender beef strips, crisp onions, and a flavorful sauce all in one sizzling stir-fry. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it offers a taste of restaurant-quality Chinese cuisine right in your home.

Every bite of this pepper steak is bursting with flavor, making it a delightful choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin creates a rich sauce that enhances the beef and onions beautifully.
• Family-friendly: With its savory taste and appealing presentation, everyone at the table will love this dish.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal that suits any preference.
• Great for leftovers: If you have any left over (which is rare!), it’s just as tasty the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can enhance nutrition and add color.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade infuses the beef with flavor while it sits—so don’t skip this step! Toss the beef strips in the marinade and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows time for those delicious flavors to soak in!

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add your sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness! Once they’re ready, season with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan. Set aside while we move on to cooking the beef.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

In the same pan, increase the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add those marinated beef strips into the hot pan. Stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until browned but still tender. The high heat helps create that irresistible sear while keeping your meat juicy!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over your seared beef in the skillet. Let it simmer until thickened—this step adds depth to your dish by coating every piece of beef in that savory goodness.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add those sautéed onions back into the pan with the beef and stir well to combine everything. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Enjoy your homemade Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions!

Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few pro tips, you can make this dish truly shine!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness. The longer the beef sits in the marinade, the more it absorbs those delicious flavors.

• Use High Heat: Cooking over high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sear on the beef strips. This not only locks in juices but also gives your dish that irresistible caramelized flavor.

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go ensures a smooth cooking process. Stir-frying is quick, and having everything ready means you won’t miss a beat while cooking.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the beef will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets that lovely brown crust.

• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrients. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a variety of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions in an inviting way can make all the difference at dinner time. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
• Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous note that complements the savory sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This quick vegetable side adds a vibrant green touch while offering a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender beef.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with assorted vegetables make for a fun appetizer or side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Garlic Noodles: Tossed with garlic and scallions, these noodles provide a flavorful base that complements the pepper steak perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re sure to impress your family or guests with this delightful meal! Enjoy every sizzling bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• 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 before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of meat for Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute chicken or tofu for a delicious variation. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I ensure my beef is tender in Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

To keep your beef tender, slice against the grain and marinate it briefly. Cooking at high heat will also help retain its juiciness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions brings joy to your dinner table! It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy making this delightful meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!