Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Classic

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Classic

Take your taste buds on a journey with this irresistible Chinese pepper steak with onions. This quick and easy stir-fry combines tender, marinated beef, vibrant bell peppers, and onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this restaurant-quality dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes. Pair it with a bowl of steamed rice, and you have a satisfying, flavorful meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: A rich, savory sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
• Healthy and Colorful: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and swap in your favorite veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinated Beef:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

To Serve:

• Cooked rice
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced flank steak with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well to evenly coat the beef.
2. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.

2. Cook the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
2. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
2. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Add Aromatics

1. Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Make sure the sauce is well combined.

6. Combine and Cook

1. Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

7. Serve

1. Serve the pepper steak over a bed of freshly cooked rice.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak

1. Slice Against the Grain: This ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef.
2. High Heat Stir-Fry: Cook quickly over high heat to keep the vegetables crisp.
3. Customize the Veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety.
4. Thicker Sauce: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) to the sauce for extra thickness.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with egg rolls, spring rolls, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Drink: Serve with iced green tea or a light lager beer for a refreshing complement.
• Dessert: End the meal with mango sticky rice or fortune cookies for a sweet finish.