Name: Chinese Pepper Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinoise
Ingredients: 450 g (1 lb) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye); 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp (15 g) grated fresh ginger; 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce; 1 tbsp (15 ml) oyster sauce (optional); 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 large onion (about 200 g), sliced; 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce; 2 tbsp (30 ml) oyster sauce (optional); 2 tbsp (30 ml) hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp (30 ml) rice vinegar; 1 tbsp (15 g) cornstarch; 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil; 2 tbsp (30 ml) water

Description

Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender beef strips, sweet onions, and a glossy, savory-sweet sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-style taste without the takeout bill. Customizable and budget-friendly, this dish is a family favorite you’ll want on repeat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef

450 g (1 lb) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp (15 g) grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
1 tbsp (15 ml) oyster sauce (optional)
1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Onions

1 large onion (about 200 g), sliced
1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) oyster sauce (optional)
2 tbsp (30 ml) hoisin sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) rice vinegar
1 tbsp (15 g) cornstarch
2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
2 tbsp (30 ml) water

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Instructions

Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Add beef strips, toss to coat, and marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Cook the Onions
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, sauté 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
Sear the Beef
Increase heat to medium-high. Add 1 tbsp oil, then sear marinated beef for 3–4 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove from the pan.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and vegetable oil. Pour into the skillet, stirring constantly until glossy and thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
Combine
Return beef and onions to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly, stir-fry for 2 minutes, and serve hot.

Notes

Slice beef against the grain for tenderness.

Cook beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.

Slightly caramelized onions add natural sweetness—don’t rush them.

Add bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for more vegetables.

For a spicier version, stir in chili flakes or sriracha.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Plats
Method: Sauté / Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinoise