If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances tender beef, vibrant peppers, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and ginger, then this Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together simple ingredients that transform into an unforgettable meal bursting with savory, slightly sweet flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but critical to achieving that authentic taste, wonderful texture, and colorful presentation. Each item plays a unique role, from the soy sauce’s salty depth to the crisp freshness of bell peppers.
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: Ensures tenderness and quick cooking, key for a perfect stir-fry.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds a savory umami foundation to the marinade.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet depth to the dish.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Offers a hint of sweetness with a complex flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and coats the beef beautifully.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Adds a mild tang that balances the richness.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking): Suitable for high heat cooking to sear the steak.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Provides crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a sweet note and eye-catching contrast.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Offers sweetness and soft texture when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings sharp, fragrant flavor essential to stir-fries.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Lends warmth and a burst of zest.
- 1 tbsp water (to loosen sauce if needed): Ensures your sauce has the perfect consistency.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh finish and visual appeal.
How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing your thinly sliced flank steak in a bowl with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This marinade not only infuses the meat with deep, complex flavors but also tenderizes it slightly. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes so every bite is packed with savory goodness.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef in a single layer to get a beautiful sear. Cook each side for about 1 to 2 minutes until browned on the outside but not fully cooked through. This quick searing locks in juices and flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside while you prep the veggies.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced onion and both green and red bell peppers. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch and freshness. Next, add garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until their aroma fills your kitchen – this step is magical for building flavor layers.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the seared beef to the pan and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce slightly thickens to coat all ingredients. If the mixture seems too thick, splash in a little water to loosen the sauce just enough to achieve that perfect mouthwatering texture.
How to Serve Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. These simple garnishes bring a pop of color, crunch, and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the pepper steak beautifully. They also add a little zing and freshness to balance the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up every bit of the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside simple steamed broccoli or a crunchy Asian slaw for an easy complete meal that hits all the right notes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz up your presentation, serve the pepper steak over a bed of fluffy quinoa or noodles for a twist. You can also plate it in colorful bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a fresh, bright contrast that guests will love. Presentation matters, and a little creativity can make this dish even more exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef and vegetables retain their flavor well, making it easy to enjoy a quick, tasty meal on busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious dish for later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to keep rice separate, then thaw and reheat the pepper steak for a quick, satisfying meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure the beef stays tender and the vegetables keep their bite. Adding a splash of water when reheating helps keep the sauce silky and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for tenderness and flavor, sirloin or skirt steak also work wonderfully well. Just be sure to slice against the grain thinly to keep the beef tender.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe is not spicy by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices if you prefer a little heat in your stir-fry.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check your oyster and hoisin sauces for gluten-free labels.
What can I substitute for cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch in equal amounts. These also help thicken the sauce and give the beef a nice coating.
How long does the marinade take to work?
Marinating for 15 to 20 minutes is sufficient to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. You can marinate longer if you have time, but avoid going too long as the cornstarch can break down the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe is a fantastic way to bring vibrant colors and bold flavors to your dinner table quickly and easily. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and exciting every time you cook it. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep making it again and again.
Print
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful and quick stir-fry dish featuring tender flank steak marinated in a savory blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces, paired with crisp bell peppers and onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it offers a delicious balance of textures and bold Asian-inspired flavors, served best over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Cooking Oils and Garnish
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tbsp water (to loosen sauce if needed)
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Toss well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Sear the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef slices in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften but retain some crunch.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the seared beef to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it.
- Serve: Serve the pepper steak hot over steamed rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili during the stir-fry step.
- Flank steak can be substituted with sirloin or skirt steak for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Make sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
