If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and sizzling excitement, this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Tender slices of beef are marinated and cooked to perfection alongside colorful bell peppers and sweet onions, all wok-tossed in a savory sauce that’s packed with umami and just the right amount of black pepper heat. This dish not only delights with its vibrant appearance but also offers a perfect harmony of textures—from juicy meat to crisp vegetables—that will leave you wanting seconds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings authentic Chinese flavors right to your kitchen in a wonderfully simple way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role—from the tender beef that forms the hearty base to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and color. The sauces work together to create a rich, savory glaze, while spices liven up the whole dish, making each bite both flavorful and visually appealing.
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced against the grain: Choosing these cuts ensures tenderness and quick cooking, preserving juicy texture.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds salty depth and umami richness that is classic in Chinese cooking.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Brings a slightly sweet, savory boost to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the marinade and sauce, giving the dish its signature silky coating.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Perfect for high-heat stir-frying without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic sharpness that elevates the dish’s taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Adds a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the savory beef and veggies.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips: Offers vibrant color and crisp, slightly bitter notes to balance richness.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips: Sweetness and striking red color make the dish irresistible at first glance.
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings: Adds natural sweetness and a tender but substantial bite when cooked just right.
- 2 green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces: Finishing touch that builds layers of freshness and mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers the distinctive peppery punch essential for this pepper steak.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A fragrant drizzle that imparts a nutty aroma, rounding out the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal with their delicate nutty taste.
- Cooked white or brown rice for serving: The perfect vehicle to soak up the luscious sauce and make it a full meal.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Begin by combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl to create a flavorful marinade. Toss the thinly sliced beef into this mixture, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Letting the meat soak in these seasonings for at least 15 minutes not only tenderizes it but also infuses fantastic flavor, which forms the heart of this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry these for about 30 seconds until their enticing fragrance fills your kitchen. This quick step releases essential oils that create a savory foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Next, add the marinated beef slices to the hot skillet, spreading them into a single layer. Let the meat sear without stirring for 1 to 2 minutes to develop a beautiful caramelized crust. Then stir-fry briefly until the beef is browned but still slightly undercooked. This technique preserves juiciness and tenderness. Remove the beef from the pan, setting it aside temporarily to keep it warm.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion rings. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for 2 to 3 minutes until they are tender yet retain some crispness. This balance is key to providing a delightful texture contrast in the final dish.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Vegetables
Return the beef to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with black pepper for that signature kick, and drizzle with sesame oil for a fragrant finish. Stir everything thoroughly and continue cooking for about 2 more minutes to ensure the beef is fully cooked and the flavors meld perfectly, coating the meat and vegetables in a beautiful sheen.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. These garnishes not only bring a vibrant pop of color but also enhance the dish’s texture with a fresh, crisp contrast and nutty crunch, completing this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe perfectly.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your sizzling steak piping hot alongside steamed white or brown rice. The rice acts like a sponge, soaking up every bit of that incredible peppery sauce and making each bite satisfying and balanced.
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the green onions and toasted sesame seeds, you can add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of herbaceous brightness. Thinly sliced fresh chili peppers also make a great addition if you enjoy a bit of heat to complement the robust flavors of the pepper steak.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs marvelously with simple sides like steamed jasmine or brown rice to absorb the sauce. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or baby bok choy adds a fresh, green element that balances the richness of the beef. You could also serve it with a simple cucumber salad to offer a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a truly eye-catching presentation, serve the pepper steak sizzling on a cast-iron platter or a hot plate to recreate the restaurant experience at home. Another idea is to stuff the stir-fry into lettuce wraps for a fun, handheld version that’s perfect for sharing and adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender steak and veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. It should maintain its best quality for up to 2 months. Just thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth if needed to keep everything moist. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can toughen the beef and wilt the vegetables too much. A quick stir-fry refresh is the ideal way to bring this dish back to life.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and flank steak are preferred for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can use other cuts like ribeye or even skirt steak. Just be mindful to slice thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and verify your oyster sauce is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the full flavor without worrying about gluten.
Can I substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables?
Definitely. Vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or sliced mushrooms can work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times slightly since some vegetables may cook faster or slower.
How spicy is this dish?
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe has a mild to moderate peppery heat thanks to the black pepper, perfect for most palates. If you prefer it spicier, adding fresh chili peppers or chili flakes is an easy way to turn up the heat.
What rice is best to serve with this pepper steak?
Traditional steamed white jasmine rice complements the dish beautifully with its fragrant softness, but brown rice is a nutritious, earthier alternative that offers heartier texture and fiber.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe, it’s hard not to keep it in your regular meal rotation. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that tastes like a restaurant-quality feast. The harmony of tender beef and crisp vegetables tossed in a luscious sauce makes every bite downright irresistible. So go ahead, bring a little sizzle and warmth to your dinner table tonight!
Print
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 10m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender strips of beef marinated in savory soy and oyster sauce, paired with crisp bell peppers and onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it’s packed with bold Asian flavors and served best 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 and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
Serving
- Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes, then stir-fry to brown the beef without fully cooking it. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add green and red bell peppers along with sliced onions. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables become tender-crisp.
- Combine beef and vegetables: Return the beef to the skillet, add black pepper and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce coats all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the dish before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot alongside steamed white or brown rice to enjoy the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Marinating the beef for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- You can substitute sirloin or flank steak with other quick-cooking beef cuts.
- Adjust black pepper quantity to suit your spice preference.
- Serving with rice helps balance the bold flavors and soak up the savory sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari in place of soy sauce and check oyster sauce ingredients.
- Optional toasted sesame seeds add a nice nutty crunch as a garnish.
