Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a bold and flavorful stir-fry dish that brings together tender marinated steak, crisp bell peppers, and aromatic onions in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its balance of umami, sweetness, and a touch of heat. The sizzling effect when served makes it an exciting meal that feels like a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for anyone craving a satisfying and vibrant meal.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Toss until the steak is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15–20 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with deep umami flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the steak marinates, slice the onions and bell peppers into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a slight crunch. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sear the Steak
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated steak in batches (to avoid overcrowding), searing each side for about 2–3 minutes until the edges are beautifully browned. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and water, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak and vegetables to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: A balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
- Healthy & Colorful: Bell peppers and onions add crunch and vibrant color.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Enjoy your homemade Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions—a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen! 🔥🥩🥢