Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

Introduction

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful and quick stir-fry dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender beef strips are marinated and cooked with sweet caramelized onions and a savory sauce that brings everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil (for marinade and cooking)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce (for marinade)
• 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional, for marinade)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce (for sauce)
• 2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional, for sauce)
• 2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
• 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil (for onions)
• 1 large onion, sliced

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce (if using), grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Step 2: Toss the beef strips in the marinade, coating evenly, and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Season the onions with salt and pepper, then remove them from the pan and set aside.
5. Step 5: In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 2 tbsp oyster sauce if using, to make the sauce.
7. Step 7: Pour the sauce over the beef in the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the meat evenly.
8. Step 8: Add the sautéed onions back into the pan and stir to combine everything well.
9. Step 9: Serve the pepper steak hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add sliced fresh chili or a pinch of crushed red pepper when stir-frying the beef.
• Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tbsp, but mix it with cold water before adding to avoid clumps.
• Use bell peppers along with onions to add color and sweetness to the dish.

Storage

Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix and marinate the beef a few hours ahead or even overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor, just cover it well.

What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

Sirloin or ribeye strips are ideal because they are tender and cook quickly. Avoid tougher cuts that need longer cooking times.

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 143 reviews

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender strips of beef marinated in soy and oyster sauce, cooked with aromatic garlic and ginger, and complemented by sweet caramelized onions. Served hot over steamed rice or noodles, it offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors in a quick and satisfying meal.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef and Marinade

• 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
• 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

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

Other Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef: Toss the beef strips in the marinade ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the beef sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but still tender.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth.
6. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef in the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly.
7. Combine & Serve: Add the sautéed onions back into the pan with the beef and stir to combine all the flavors. Serve the pepper steak hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

• If you prefer a spicier dish, add freshly ground black pepper or sliced chili peppers during the stir-fry stage.
• Oyster sauce is optional but adds depth; substitute with additional soy sauce if desired.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for best flavor, but ground ginger and garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce alternatives.
• Be careful not to overcook the beef to keep it tender and juicy.
• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or your choice of noodles for a complete meal.

Keywords: Chinese pepper steak, stir-fry beef, caramelized onions, soy sauce beef, Chinese beef recipe, easy stir-fry, hoisin sauce beef