Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

Craving a restaurant-quality stir-fry that’s quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly? This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe is your answer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this vibrant dish combines tender beef strips, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions in a savory, umami-packed sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s naturally high in protein and can be made gluten-free with a simple swap. Inspired by classic Chinese-American takeout, this recipe brings bold flavors to your kitchen without the takeout price tag. Whether you’re a stir-fry novice or a seasoned home cook, this pepper steak will impress with its rich sauce and tender beef. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced (or sirloin for a leaner option)
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced (or red bell pepper for sweetness)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin for a sweeter profile)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce thickening)
  • 1/4 cup beef broth (or water for a lighter option)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Marinate with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch for 10 minutes to tenderize.
2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, beef broth, sugar, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
3. Sear the beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers and onions, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. Combine and simmer: Return the beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir to coat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, if using. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Save

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

This dish is a stir-fry classic that balances tender beef with crunchy vegetables and a glossy, flavorful sauce. The key is high heat and quick cooking to preserve the texture of the ingredients. Start by marinating the beef to enhance tenderness, then sear it for a caramelized crust. Sauté the peppers and onions just until they soften slightly, keeping their vibrant colors. The sauce, made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch, ties everything together with a rich, savory finish. For best results, use a wok or a large skillet to ensure even cooking and plenty of room for tossing.

What Cut of Beef Is Best for Pepper Steak?

Flank steak is the top choice for Chinese pepper steak due to its lean texture and rich flavor. When sliced thinly against the grain, it stays tender and absorbs the marinade well. Sirloin is another excellent option, offering a slightly leaner cut with great flavor. For a budget-friendly alternative, try top round or skirt steak, but avoid tougher cuts like chuck unless you’re velveting the meat (a technique discussed below). Always slice the beef thinly and uniformly for even cooking.

How to Make Pepper Steak Tender?

To achieve melt-in-your-mouth beef, use these techniques:

• Slice against the grain: This shortens the muscle fibers, making the beef easier to chew.
• Marinate with cornstarch: A quick marinade with soy sauce and cornstarch (velveting) tenderizes the meat by locking in moisture.
• Don’t overcook: Sear the beef quickly over high heat to avoid toughening the fibers.
• Use baking soda (optional): For tougher cuts, toss the beef with 1/2 tsp baking soda per pound and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing and marinating. This breaks down tough proteins.

What Sauce Goes in Chinese Pepper Steak?

The sauce is the heart of this dish, delivering that signature umami flavor. A classic Chinese pepper steak sauce includes:

• Soy sauce: Provides saltiness and depth.
• Oyster sauce: Adds a rich, savory sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: Balances the sauce with a slight tang.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
• Beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and adds volume.
  You can customize the sauce by adding hoisin for sweetness or chili paste for heat. Adjust the sugar to taste for a perfect balance.

Can You Use Soy Sauce in Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! Soy sauce is a cornerstone of the pepper steak sauce, providing umami and saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level, especially if you’re adding oyster sauce, which is also salty. For a gluten-free version, swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re avoiding soy entirely, try a soy-free alternative like liquid aminos, but note it may slightly alter the flavor.

What Peppers Are Best for Chinese Pepper Steak?

Green bell peppers are traditional for their slightly bitter, earthy flavor, which complements the savory sauce. Red or yellow bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing. For a spicy kick, include a small amount of sliced jalapeño or Thai chili peppers. Avoid overly soft peppers like poblanos, as they can become mushy during stir-frying. Always slice peppers into uniform strips for even cooking.

Can You Make Pepper Steak Without Onions?

Yes, you can make pepper steak without onions, though they add sweetness and depth. If you’re avoiding onions, increase the bell peppers or add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli to maintain texture and flavor. Carrots or water chestnuts can also provide crunch. Adjust the sauce slightly, as onions release moisture during cooking, which affects the sauce’s consistency.

How to Thicken Pepper Steak Sauce?

To achieve a glossy, restaurant-style sauce:

• Use cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold broth or water before adding it to the sauce. This prevents lumps and ensures even thickening.
• Simmer briefly: Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes after adding the slurry to activate the cornstarch.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. If too thin, mix an additional 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it in.
  Avoid overcooking, as prolonged heat can break down the cornstarch and thin the sauce.

How Long to Cook Pepper Steak in a Skillet?

The total cooking time for pepper steak in a skillet is about 10-12 minutes:

• Beef searing: 4-6 minutes (2-3 minutes per side).
• Vegetable stir-frying: 3-4 minutes.
• Sauce simmering: 2-3 minutes.
  Use high heat for searing and stir-frying to lock in flavors, and reduce to medium for simmering the sauce. Avoid overcooking the beef to keep it tender and the vegetables to maintain their crunch.

Is Chinese Pepper Steak Healthy?

Chinese pepper steak can be a healthy choice when prepared thoughtfully:

• High in protein: Beef provides 25-30g of protein per serving, supporting muscle health.
• Rich in vegetables: Bell peppers and onions offer fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
• Customizable for diets: Use low-sodium soy sauce and lean cuts like sirloin for a heart-healthy option. Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb or keto-friendly version.
• Calorie-conscious: A typical serving (without rice) is around 300-350 calories, depending on the beef cut and oil used.
  Watch the sodium content from soy and oyster sauces, and use minimal oil to keep it light.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 320 per serving (based on 4 servings)
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 12g (without rice)
• Fat: 14g

Final Thoughts

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative for a complete meal that satisfies every time!

Related Recipes To Read:-

• Bacon Cheese Fries: Easy To Make Recipe
• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup Recipe
• Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
• Chewy Chocolate Lava Cookies Recipe
• Easy Crockpot Beef with Gravy and Egg Noodles Recipe