Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a treat, you’ve got to try this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. It’s one of those recipes that brings the family together, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas while keeping dinner prep simple. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s packed with flavor thanks to the tender beef strips and vibrant onions, making it a favorite in my household!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can whip up this meal even on the busiest days!
- Family-friendly: The savory flavors and tender beef make it a hit for both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Pair it with rice or noodles, adjust the vegetables, or add your favorite sauces to make it your own!
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
- Healthy goodness: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.
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 Cooking
- 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
- 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Variations
One of the great things about Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is its flexibility! Feel free to tweak it based on what you have or what flavors you enjoy.
- 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 color and crunch.
- Make it spicy: Toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh chili for an extra kick.
- Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without losing flavor.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade not only infuses flavor into the beef but also helps tenderize it. Toss the beef strips into the marinade and let them soak up all that goodness for 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 until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial because caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish. Once done, season them with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Now it’s time for high heat! In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add your marinated beef strips and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they turn beautifully browned. Searing locks in juices and flavors—don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this luscious mixture over your beef once it’s nicely browned. Let everything simmer until the sauce thickens; this will coat your beef in a rich glaze that’s just irresistible.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add those sautéed onions back into the pan and give everything a gentle stir to combine well. Serve your sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak hot over steamed rice or noodles for a delightful meal that feels like dining out right at home.
Enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes as well!
Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with a few simple tips to ensure that it’s bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.
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Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye, as they sear beautifully and remain juicy. This ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes helps infuse it with flavors from the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
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High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat during the stir-fry process creates a nice sear on the beef while keeping it tender inside. This technique also adds to that irresistible sizzling sound!
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking the beef in two separate batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, which affects both texture and flavor.
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Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients according to your preferences. Adding more hoisin or a dash of chili sauce can create a unique twist that complements your palate.
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions can turn an everyday meal into something special. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it beautifully.
Garnishes
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
- Cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro can elevate the dish visually while providing a fresh herbal note.
Side Dishes
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce of the pepper steak, making each bite delightful.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with garlic complements the beef perfectly while adding nutrition.
- Cold Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a crisp contrast to the warm steak.
- Noodles in Soy Sauce: Simple noodles tossed in soy sauce make for an easy side that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of your main dish.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only create an unforgettable meal but also impress your loved ones with your culinary skills! Enjoy every sizzling bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal throughout the week. By making this dish in advance, you can save time on busy nights while still indulging in bold flavors.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For optimal freshness, allow the dish to cool before sealing it in the container.
Freezing
- To freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container.
- Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen pepper steak overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Use a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
- Add a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it moist.
FAQs
If you’re curious about making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions at home, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions that might help.
Can I use chicken instead of beef for Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef strips with chicken breast or thigh strips. Adjust cooking times as necessary since chicken may cook faster than beef.
How can I make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions spicier?
To add a kick to your dish, incorporate sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the stir-fry. Adjust according to your heat preference!
What side dishes pair well with Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep and can be made ahead. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions becomes a treasured recipe in your kitchen! Its vibrant flavors and quick preparation make it perfect for any night. Enjoy making this delightful stir-fry, and don’t hesitate to personalize it to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your home. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this quick and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The tender beef strips are marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then stir-fried with sweet caramelized onions for a delightful contrast. Perfect served over steamed rice or noodles, this one-pan wonder makes cleanup a breeze while delivering a satisfying and nutritious dinner option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (divided)
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 large onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, garlic, and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for the marinade. Add beef strips and let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced onions until soft and caramelized for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat remaining vegetable oil on high heat. Add marinated beef strips and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned.
- In a small bowl, whisk together remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour over the beef and stir until thickened.
- Add caramelized onions back into the pan and combine well before serving over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
