Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Why make this recipe
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delicious and quick meal that brings together tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, and it’s easy to customize. This dish is full of flavor and can be made in less than 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce bold flavors to your family or friends.
How to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
Directions
Prepare the Steak:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Toss the beef strips in the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
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.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Sear the Beef:
- In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and let simmer until it thickens.
Combine & Serve:
- Add the sautéed onions back into the pan, stirring to combine.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
How to serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Serve this dish hot, right out of the skillet. It goes well over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles. You can garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch.
How to store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the beef from drying out.
Tips to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef to get a nice sear.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the sauces to your liking; if you love spice, consider adding some chili paste or fresh peppers.
Variation
For a different taste, try using chicken or tofu instead of beef. The cooking time will be slightly less for chicken, and tofu will need to be pressed before cooking to remove excess moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beef strips?
Yes, you can use frozen beef strips, but be sure to defrost them completely before marinating for the best flavor and texture.
2. Is it necessary to use oyster sauce?
No, oyster sauce is optional. You can skip it or find a vegetarian substitute if desired.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and veggies ahead of time. Just cook them right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Toss the beef strips in the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and let simmer until it thickens.
- Add the sautéed onions back into the pan, stirring to combine.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
