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Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

5 from 679 reviews

This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish made with tender flank steak, vibrant bell peppers, and onions, all tossed in a savory soy-oyster sauce. Perfectly balanced with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, it makes a satisfying weeknight meal when served over steamed white rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 bell peppers (green and red), sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

To Serve

  • Cooked white rice
  • Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water or beef broth, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and set the mixture aside.
  2. Cook the Steak: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, fresh ginger, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still retain a crisp texture.
  4. Combine Meat and Sauce: Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat all ingredients.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Add black pepper and sesame oil if using, and stir to distribute the flavors evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the steak is cooked through and the flavors meld. Serve hot over cooked white rice and garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  • You can substitute beef broth with water for a lighter sauce.
  • Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper and sugar to taste for desired heat and sweetness.
  • Use a wok or large skillet to achieve even cooking during stir-frying.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture of the vegetables.

Keywords: Chinese Pepper Steak, Stir-Fry Beef, Pepper Steak with Onions, Quick Chinese Dinner, Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry