🍽️ Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a home-cooked meal that evokes the vibrant flavors of restaurant dishes. One recipe that has quickly become a family favorite in our household is Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. The combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma. Each time I make this dish, my family gathers around the table, eager to dig in, and the compliments flow as freely as the soy sauce! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

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

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced into thin strips
• 1 large onion, sliced into thin wedges
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak:

• In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced steak with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly.
• Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth (or water), oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.

1. Cook the Steak:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
• Add the marinated steak slices in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through.
• Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

1. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
• Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
• Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

1. Combine and Cook:

• Return the seared steak to the skillet with the vegetables.
• Pour the sauce over the steak and vegetables.
• Stir everything together and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Serve the Chinese Pepper Steak hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
• Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple green salad.
• For extra heat, add sliced fresh chili peppers on top.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Flank steak is ideal for this recipe as it’s tender and flavorful when sliced against the grain. Sirloin is also a great alternative.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the steak, ensure the slices are in a single layer to achieve a nice sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or fresh chilies to the stir-fry.
4. Make it Colorful: Use a variety of bell peppers to create a visually appealing dish. Each color adds its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
5. Let the Sauce Thicken: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in at the end of cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free version.
• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Sweet and Sour Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the stir-fry for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with spring rolls or dumplings as an appetizer for a full Chinese-inspired feast.
• A side of hot and sour soup complements the main dish beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the vegetables may lose some texture. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• To Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth to the pan when reheating to help steam the dish and restore moisture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or even shrimp in place of beef.

1. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

• If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and sugar for a similar flavor.

1. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the other sauces are also gluten-free.

1. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

• Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

1. What should I do if my sauce is too salty?

• If the sauce is too salty, try adding a bit of sugar or additional water to balance the flavors.

1. Is this dish spicy?

• The spice level can be adjusted by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes.

1. How do I know when the beef is done cooking?

• The beef should be browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the middle; it will continue to cook when combined with the vegetables.

1. What can I serve with Chinese Pepper Steak?

• Serve it with fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

1. Can I add nuts to this dish?

• Yes, cashews or peanuts can be added for a crunchy texture.

1. How do I slice flank steak correctly?
   • Always slice against the grain for a tender result.

Conclusion

This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe is a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. The balance of savory sauce, tender beef, and crisp vegetables will impress anyone who tries it. Plus, it’s quick to make, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones at the table. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a staple in your home cooking repertoire!

Print