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Craving a quick, flavorful, and restaurant-quality meal? This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is here to save the day! Tender slices of beef, crisp bell peppers, and onions are stir-fried in a savory, slightly sweet sauce with a kick of black pepper. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, this dish is a weeknight dinner hero that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bold flavors: A savory, slightly sweet sauce with a peppery kick.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or protein.
- Better than takeout: Fresh, homemade, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) beef flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (plus more if needed)
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
2. Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the hot pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
3. Cook the Veggies
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Keep it vibrant: Don’t overcook the veggies—they should retain some crunch for texture.
4. Combine Everything
Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the black pepper and beef broth (or water). Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, add a splash more beef broth or water.
5. Finish with Sesame Oil
For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with 2 teaspoons of sesame oil and give it a final toss.
6. Serve
Serve the sizzling pepper steak hot over a bed of steamed white rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Thinly slice the beef: This ensures quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Prep ahead: Slice the beef and veggies in advance for an even quicker cooking process.
- High heat is key: Stir-frying over medium-high heat ensures the beef gets a nice sear and the veggies stay crisp.
- Customize the spice: Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste—add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
- Switch the protein: Use chicken, pork, or tofu instead of beef.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed white rice: The classic choice for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Fried rice or noodles: For a heartier meal.
- A side of stir-fried greens: Like bok choy or spinach.
- Egg rolls or spring rolls: For a complete takeout-inspired feast.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye work well. Just make sure to slice it thinly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can marinate the beef and chop the veggies ahead of time, but cook everything just before serving for the best texture.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Why This Dish Is a Winner
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavor-packed, quick, and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The tender beef, crisp veggies, and savory sauce come together in a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s healthier and more affordable than takeout!
Let’s Cook Together!
I’d love to hear how your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🥢✨