Why Make This Recipe
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a dish that brings a lot of flavor and excitement to your dinner table. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. The combination of tender beef strips, fresh onions, and savory sauces creates a meal that will impress your family and friends. The cooking method is straightforward, and you can have this dish ready in about 30 minutes.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time. It is also adaptable to your taste. You can adjust the flavors by adding more spices or vegetables. What’s more, cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, making this dish a healthier choice compared to takeout. By making it yourself, you can ensure that every bite is full of fresh ingredients and exciting flavors.
Another reason to make this recipe is that it works well for various occasions. Whether you are having a family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week, Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak fits the bill. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a piece of Chinese cuisine right at home.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is an easy and enjoyable process. Let’s break it down step by step so that you can achieve a delicious dish every time.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Here is what you’ll need:
- 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
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional, for the sauce)
- 2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
For cooking:
- 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 preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine the beef strips, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Mix everything well. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step will help the beef absorb all the wonderful flavors.
Cook the Onions: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and caramelized. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef. Sear it for about 2-3 minutes until it turns brown. Aim for a nice crust on the outside for added flavor.
Prepare the Sauce: While the beef is cooking, take another bowl and whisk together the remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Once the beef is browned, pour this sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This will help the sauce thicken and coat the beef perfectly.
Combine Everything: After the sauce has thickened, add back the sautéed onions into the skillet. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors combine. Your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak
To enjoy your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak at its best, serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. The rice or noodles will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite even tastier. You can also garnish the dish with some freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to round out your meal.
If you have leftovers, consider packing them in an airtight container for lunch the next day. This dish tastes amazing, even when reheated!
How to Store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak
If you have leftover Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak, it is easy to store. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist while heating. Enjoy this dish again without losing its wonderful flavors!
Tips to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak
Choose the Right Meat: For the best results, use tender cuts of beef like sirloin or ribeye. These cuts have the right balance of tenderness and flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Searing the beef quickly on high heat will give you a nice crust while keeping the inside tender. Avoid cooking it for too long to prevent toughness.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition. Just toss them into the skillet after the onions.
Adjust the Sauce: If you like a spicier flavor, consider adding some chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. This will give your dish a nice kick.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, consider adding different types of meat or using tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also swap the protein and use chicken or pork if you prefer. Changing the vegetables or experimenting with different sauces can also offer new taste experiences. Changing ratios and ingredients gives you creative freedom over this classic dish.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and even cook the beef ahead of time. Just reheat before serving. This can save time when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for soy sauce?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free soy sauce made from tamari. Just use it in the same quantities to keep the flavor profile intact.
Can I use frozen beef strips?
Using frozen beef strips is okay, but it’s best to thaw them fully before marinating and cooking. This will help the beef cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
By following this guide, you can successfully prepare Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, bringing a delightful dish to your dining table. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the beef strips, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Mix well and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, increase heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef and sear for about 2-3 minutes until browned.
- In another bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet and let it simmer until thickened.
- Add the sautéed onions back into the skillet, mixing well to combine all flavors. Your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak is now ready to serve!