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Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 137 reviews

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful stir-fried dish featuring tender strips of sirloin or ribeye beef marinated in a savory blend of soy, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. Caramelized onions add sweet depth, while a homemade sauce thickened with cornstarch brings a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet notes. Quick to prepare and perfect served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish delivers authentic Chinese-inspired taste right at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Marinade

  • 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
  • 1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 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

Vegetables and Cooking Oil

  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil for searing beef
  • 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil for sautéing onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce (if using), grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Toss the beef strips in this marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and slightly caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef: Using 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 on all sides but still tender inside.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional), 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth.
  5. Combine & Simmer: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef in the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef beautifully.
  6. Add Onions & Serve: Return the sautéed onions to the pan and stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Serve the sizzling pepper steak hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes during cooking.
  • Oyster sauce is optional but adds a rich umami flavor; substitute with more soy sauce if avoiding seafood-based ingredients.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and omit hoisin sauce or use a gluten-free alternative.
  • Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when searing beef to ensure proper browning.
  • Letting the beef marinate for longer than 15 minutes can intensify flavors but avoid exceeding 1 hour to maintain meat texture.

Keywords: Chinese pepper steak, stir-fry beef recipe, caramelized onions, soy sauce beef, savory Chinese dinner

Find it online: https://miarosetti.com/sizzling-chinese-pepper-steak-with-onions-recipe/