Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a night out, then you’ll love this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! This dish is a family favorite at our house, and for good reason. It’s not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes. You can easily whip it up on busy weeknights or serve it at family gatherings to impress your loved ones.
What makes this recipe truly special is how the tender beef strips mix with crisp onions and a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s like bringing the bold flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
- Family-friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it perfect for all ages.
- Versatile: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, so you can switch it up based on what you have on hand.
- Packed with flavor: With garlic, ginger, and a rich sauce, every bite is bursting with taste.
- Healthy option: Loaded with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays an important role in achieving that authentic taste. Let’s gather what we need for this tasty Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions!
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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can make simple adjustments to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different twist.
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add color and nutrition to the dish.
- Spice it up: If you like some heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers during cooking.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
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. Toss in the beef strips to coat them evenly, then let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step ensures that each bite is flavorful!
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. Season them with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan. Caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness, which balances beautifully with the savory steak.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
In the same pan, heat another 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for just 2-3 minutes until they are browned. Getting a good sear adds depth of flavor to your dish while keeping the beef tender.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the cooked beef in the pan. Let it simmer until thickened—this step creates that luscious coating that you’ll crave!
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Finally, add those sautéed onions back into the pan and stir everything to combine well. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Enjoy your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions—it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your home too!
Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Creating the perfect Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is all about attention to detail and a few insider tricks. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve restaurant-worthy results at home!
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Choose the right cut of beef: Using tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye ensures juicy, flavorful steak that cooks quickly and remains tender during stir-frying.
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Marinate for flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate in your sauce for at least 10-15 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness, making each bite deliciously savory.
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Use high heat for searing: Cooking on high heat helps lock in the juices of the beef while achieving that perfect sear, giving your dish a delightful contrast between crispy edges and juicy meat.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Stir-fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects texture and flavor.
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Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve this dish hot off the stove. The sizzling sound and aroma will make your meal feel special!
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fun ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes!
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
- Sesame seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds both crunch and a nutty taste that complements the dish perfectly.
- Cilantro leaves: Fresh cilantro can brighten up your plate and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory steak.
Side Dishes
- Steamed Jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as an ideal base for soaking up the savory sauce from the pepper steak, making every bite satisfying.
- Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas not only adds nutrition but also brings vibrant colors and textures to your plate.
- Egg fried rice: This flavorful side dish combines eggs, peas, carrots, and soy sauce for a delightful companion that enhances the overall meal experience.
- Noodles tossed in soy sauce: Simple noodles tossed in soy sauce offer an alternative base that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pepper steak.
By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that’s sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this scrumptious recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is not only a delight to eat, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick weeknight dinners.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the leftover pepper steak to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Freezing
- For longer storage, place the cooled pepper steak in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
- Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for even reheating.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your cooking experience.
Can I use other vegetables in Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to this dish for extra color and nutrition.
What makes this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe special?
This recipe combines tender beef strips and crisp onions with a delicious sauce, delivering bold flavors that make any meal feel like a special occasion!
How can I adjust the spice level in Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
To add more heat, consider including sliced fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes when stir-frying. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring bold flavors into your kitchen while making dinner a breeze. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful dish that captures the essence of a bustling Chinese restaurant, look no further than Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. This vibrant stir-fry features tender beef strips and caramelized onions, all enveloped in a savory sauce that melds together beautifully in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only satisfying but also versatile—pair it with rice or noodles to create a meal that everyone will love. With its delightful balance of flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate beef: Combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add beef strips and marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook onions: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced onions until soft and caramelized; season with salt and pepper.
- Sear beef: In the same pan, add remaining oil and stir-fry marinated beef over high heat for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Make sauce: Stir together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl; pour over beef and simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add cooked onions back into the pan; mix well before serving over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
