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Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: Your Ultimate Guide to a Classic Stir-Fry

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: Your Ultimate Guide to a Classic Stir-Fry

Bring the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine straight to your table with this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. Tender beef strips, crisp onions, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce come together in a sizzling stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Scale

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, garlic, ginger, 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 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 the spice level with red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns.

  • For extra flavor, add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.