If you love bold, savory flavors and quick, satisfying meals, this Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is about to become your new favorite stir-fry. Tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions are tossed in a rich, glossy sauce packed with garlic, ginger, and umami goodness. Served over fluffy rice, it’s the kind of meal that feels like takeout but tastes even better—because you made it yourself!
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Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never need to order pepper steak again. It’s sizzling, saucy, and packed with flavor in every bite!
Why You’ll Love Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
This dish is all about bold flavors, simple ingredients, and quick cooking. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Better Than Takeout: Made with fresh ingredients and no mystery additives.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap in different veggies, or make it low-carb.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Packed with Flavor: The savory sauce, tender beef, and crisp veggies create the ultimate bite.
Ingredients in Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Here’s what makes this dish so irresistible:
- Beef Strips: Tender, juicy steak sliced thin for quick cooking. Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work great.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers adds color and sweetness.
- Onions: Slightly caramelized for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Garlic & Ginger: The flavor powerhouses that make this dish shine.
- Soy Sauce: Deep, savory umami flavor in every bite.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the beef a silky coating.
- Beef Broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Sesame Oil: A finishing touch for nutty aroma and taste.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
- Slice the Beef: Cut the steak into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness. Toss with a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch—this helps lock in moisture and creates that signature silky texture.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, and a bit of cornstarch. Set aside.
- Sear the Beef: Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Cook the beef in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add a little more oil, then toss in garlic, ginger, and onions. Stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the Peppers: Cook just until they’re slightly tender but still crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil, garnish with green onions, and serve over steamed rice.
How to Serve Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- With Steamed Rice: The classic way to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Over Noodles: Try serving it over lo mein or rice noodles for a fun twist.
- With Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb option that still tastes amazing.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a light and refreshing meal.
Additional Tips
- Slice Beef Thinly: This ensures quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Use a Hot Pan: A sizzling wok or skillet helps develop deep, restaurant-style flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the beef in batches for the best sear.
- Adjust the Sauce: Like it spicier? Add chili flakes or sriracha! Want it sweeter? A touch of honey works wonders.
- Make it Ahead: The sauce and beef can be prepped in advance for an even faster meal.
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
A1: Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best for tender, juicy results.
Q2: Can I make this without oyster sauce?
A2: Yes! Substitute with extra soy sauce and a bit of hoisin sauce or Worcestershire for depth.
Q3: How do I keep the beef tender?
A3: Marinate with soy sauce and cornstarch, and cook quickly over high heat.
Q4: Can I add more vegetables?
A4: Absolutely! Try mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn for extra crunch.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat.
Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: Yes, but freeze the beef and sauce separately for the best texture.
Q7: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A7: Stir-fry in a hot pan with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
Q8: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A8: Yes! Swap in thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a tasty variation.
Q9: How do I make this gluten-free?
A9: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.
Q10: What oil should I use for stir-frying?
A10: Peanut oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil all work great due to their high smoke points.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a game-changer for quick and flavorful dinners. It’s got everything you love about takeout but made fresh in your kitchen with simple, wholesome ingredients. So grab your wok, whip up this sizzling dish, and enjoy every delicious bite! Happy cooking!
Print
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick and flavorful dinner featuring tender beef strips, crisp onions, and a savory sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. Cooked to perfection in a sizzling stir-fry, this dish brings the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine straight to your table. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce
- 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the 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
- 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
For the Onions:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Steak:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Toss the beef strips in the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
-
Cook the Onions:
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.
-
Sear the Beef:
- In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
-
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and let simmer until it thickens.
-
Combine & Serve:
- Add the sautéed onions back into the pan, stirring to combine.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Use flank steak for a leaner option.
- Adjust spice level by adding red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg