Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick and tasty dish that can bring excitement to your dinner table. This dish combines juicy beef with sweet onions and a savory sauce, creating a delightful meal that is sure to please everyone in your family. Whether you are cooking for yourself or preparing a special dinner for friends, this recipe is simple yet impressive. The best part? It doesn’t take long to make! With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. First, it is quick to prepare. You can have a hot meal ready in about 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal but don’t have much time. Second, this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the level of spice, swap ingredients based on what you have, or even make it vegetarian by using tofu instead of beef.
Additionally, cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients. You can choose high-quality beef and fresh vegetables, making the meal healthier than takeout. The flavors in this dish are bold and satisfying, combining the sweetness of the onions with the savory flavor of the beef and the richness of the sauce. This dish is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it to family or guests, everyone will love the combination of flavors and textures.
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe that brings the taste of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen, then Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a fantastic choice.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is straightforward. You will need to prepare, cook, and serve, and we’ll guide you through each step. Follow along, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil (for marinating)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce (for marinating)
1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional, for marinating)
1 tsp sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce (for the sauce)
2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional, for the sauce)
2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 large onion, sliced
1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil (for cooking onions)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Marinate the Beef:
Start by placing the beef strips in a large bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix everything well until the beef is well coated. Let the beef sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step is crucial for adding taste to the meat.Cook the Onions:
While the beef is marinating, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This enhances their sweetness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. After cooking, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.Sear the Beef:
In the same skillet, now increase the heat to high. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef strips to the skillet. Stir-fry the beef for about 2-3 minutes or until it is browned and cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan as this can prevent proper browning.Make the Sauce:
While the beef is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Once the beef is cooked, pour this sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer on medium heat for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.Combine & Serve:
Finally, return the sautéed onions to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir everything gently to combine. Serve the sizzling pepper steak hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of this delicious dish!
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
When serving Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, presentation can make a difference. Here are some tips for serving:
Plate with Care: Use a large serving dish to showcase the colorful beef and onions. Place the beef and onion mixture in the center of the plate, allowing the vibrant colors to stand out.
Garnish: For an added touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds. This adds a pop of color and makes the dish look more appealing.
Serve with Sides: To make the meal complete, serve your steak with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. You can also add a fresh veggie side, like steamed broccoli or a simple salad.
Sizzling Effect: If you like the sizzling effect, consider using a hot cast iron skillet when serving. This keeps the dish warm and adds to the sensory experience.
How to Store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their quality. Here’s how:
Refrigerate: Let the dish cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to keep the beef tender. You can heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the beef and sauce mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
To ensure the best results, consider these helpful tips:
Choose the Right Beef: Use tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and texture. Slicing the beef against the grain can also make it more tender.
Marinating Time: Don’t skip the marinating step! Even a short marinating time can help enhance the flavors of the beef.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh diced chili to the sauce for extra spice.
Customize Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
Variation (If Any)
While the traditional Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is amazing, you can explore these variations:
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh. Use the same marinade and cooking method but adjust the cooking time for the plant protein.
Add More Veggies: For a more colorful dish, include other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Stir-fry them along with the onions.
Spicy Version: For those who love spice, you can add thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of chili oil to the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or even seafood. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
2. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you do not have oyster sauce, you can leave it out or use hoisin sauce as a substitute. Soy sauce can also work in a pinch.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine them when you are ready to eat.
Following these tips and guidelines, you will enjoy a delicious and satisfying Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will always be a hit. Enjoy your cooking!
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Place the beef strips in a large bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix well until the beef is coated. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Increase the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the skillet. Once hot, add the marinated beef strips. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the cooked beef and let simmer on medium heat for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the sautéed onions to the skillet and stir gently to combine. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.