If you are craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and vibrant colors, look no further than the Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe. This dish brings together tender slices of marinated beef, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions, all coated in a savory, slightly spicy sauce that makes every bite a true delight. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of comfort and excitement right at your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make up this recipe, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the authentic taste, delightful texture, and inviting color of the dish. From the tender beef to the fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings, every element is essential.
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced: Choose these cuts for their tenderness and perfect texture once stir-fried.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami-rich base that ties the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a deep, slightly sweet complexity to the dish’s sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and tenderizes the beef when combined in the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil ideal for stir-frying at high temperatures.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency and warmth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Adds a refreshing zing and slight heat that brightens the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Offers a crisp, slightly bitter crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings a sweet, juicy contrast and gorgeous red hues.
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings: Sweetens as it cooks and adds depth to the dish’s texture.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Provide a fresh, mild bite and beautiful garnish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a punch of warmth and seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Delivers a toasted, nutty aroma that finishes the dish perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Cooked white or brown rice: Essential for serving and soaking up the flavorful sauce.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by creating a simple marinade with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl. Toss in the thinly sliced beef to coat every piece thoroughly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes so the sauce penetrates and helps tenderize the meat, setting the stage for a juicy and flavorful steak.
Step 2: Infuse Oil with Aromatics
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry these aromatics for about 30 seconds until their fragrance fills your kitchen, creating a fragrant foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Add the marinated beef to the skillet, spreading the slices evenly to ensure a good sear. Let the beef cook undisturbed for one to two minutes to develop a nice brown crust, then stir-fry quickly until the pieces are browned but still slightly rare inside. Remove the beef and set it aside to keep it tender and juicy.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the green and red bell peppers along with the large onion rings. Stir-fry for two to three minutes until the vegetables are tender but still retain a bit of crispness. This ensures a beautiful contrast in textures when combined with the beef.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the beef to the skillet, mixing it with the colorful vegetables. Sprinkle in black pepper and drizzle sesame oil across the pan. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients evenly in the savory juices, cooking for an extra two minutes to bring all the flavors into harmony.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Final touches matter! Scatter sliced green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds on top for layers of flavor, texture, and a visually appealing finish. Serve this sizzling masterpiece immediately with a steaming bowl of white or brown rice to catch every last bit of sauce.
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Garnishes
The addition of sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds creates a fresh, nutty accent that elevates the dish’s flavor profile. These garnishes not only add crunch but also make the presentation pop with color and texture, turning the meal into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Side Dishes
This pepper steak works beautifully alongside simple steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. If you want to add more to the meal, try a side of steamed bok choy, roasted broccoli, or a tangy cucumber salad to keep the meal light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe over a bed of fluffy quinoa or noodles to mix things up. You could even wrap portions in lettuce leaves for a handheld treat. Serving in sizzling hot plates can add an extra dramatic touch that delights both guests and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beef and vegetables keep well for up to three days, making it an excellent option for a quick reheat after busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Be mindful that freezing may slightly change the texture of the vegetables, so it’s best to enjoy frozen portions within one month for optimal freshness.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the beef and vegetables. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce has thickened or dried out during storage.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sirloin or flank steak with skirt steak or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, which are available from specialty stores or online, to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
Marinating the beef for at least 15 minutes helps tenderize it. Also, cook the beef quickly over high heat and avoid overcooking to keep it juicy and tender.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Snow peas, mushrooms, or carrots can be great additions. Just add them to the stir-fry according to their cooking times to keep the veggies crisp.
What can I do if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can substitute with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar, though this will slightly change the final flavor. Oyster sauce provides that unique umami depth in the original recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about preparing and savoring the Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe. It’s satisfying, colorful, and bursting with bold flavors that feel both classic and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or simply looking for a great new dinner idea, this recipe is bound to become a favorite, turning any ordinary night into a delicious occasion. Give it a try and watch the steak sizzle to perfection!
Print
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender marinated beef strips cooked with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. This classic Chinese-inspired recipe combines the boldness of black pepper and aromatic garlic and ginger, making it a perfect weeknight dinner served with steamed rice.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Oils, Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
To Serve
- Cooked white or brown rice
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss well to coat each piece evenly. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Sear the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet in a single layer. Allow it to sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes, then stir-fry quickly until the beef is browned on the outside but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced green and red bell peppers along with the onion rings. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften but remain crisp.
- Combine and Season: Return the beef to the skillet and mix with the vegetables. Add the black pepper and drizzle in sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the beef is cooked through and coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve the sizzling pepper steak hot alongside steamed white or brown rice to soak up the rich sauce.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Marinating the beef for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness, but you can marinate longer if time permits.
- Use a hot skillet or wok to achieve a good sear and prevent stewing the meat.
- To adjust heat level, add freshly ground white or black pepper according to your taste.
- Sesame seeds are optional but add a nice crunch and nutty flavor when toasted.
- Vegetarian variation: replace beef with firm tofu or seitan strips and adjust cooking times accordingly.
