Skip the takeout and create this restaurant-quality Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions right in your own kitchen! This classic stir-fry combines tender strips of beef with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce that’s perfect over rice.
Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Calories: 385 per serving
Why You’ll Love The Chinese Pepper Steak
This Chinese Pepper Steak recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive meal that rivals your favorite takeout. It’s quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious!
Recipe Features
- Ready in just 35 minutes
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Budget-friendly
- Customizable heat level
- Perfect for meal prep
- Freezer-friendly
- Gluten-free adaptable
Chinese Pepper Steak Ingredients
The Steak
- 1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
The Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (mix of colors), sliced
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Essential Equipment for Chinese Pepper Steak
- Large wok or deep skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for sauce
- Large bowl for marinating
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Chinese Pepper Steak Instructions
Preparing the Beef for Chinese Pepper Steak
- Slice beef against the grain into thin strips (about ¼ inch thick)
- In a bowl, combine sliced beef with 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper
- Marinate for 15-30 minutes while preparing other ingredients
Making the Sauce for Chinese Pepper Steak
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil
- Set aside until needed
Cooking the Dish
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in wok over high heat
- Add marinated beef in batches, cooking 2-3 minutes per batch until browned
- Remove beef and set aside
- Add additional oil if needed
- Stir-fry onions and peppers until crisp-tender (4-5 minutes)
- Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds
- Return beef to wok
- Pour sauce over mixture
- Cook until sauce thickens (2-3 minutes)
- Garnish with green onions
Pro Tips for Success Chinese Pepper Steak
Meat Selection and Preparation for Chinese Pepper Steak
- Choose well-marbled beef for tenderness
- Freeze meat for 30 minutes before slicing for easier cutting
- Always slice against the grain
- Don’t skip the marinating step
Vegetable Tips
- Cut vegetables in uniform sizes
- Don’t overcook peppers to maintain crunch
- Use different colored peppers for visual appeal
- Add onions first as they take longer to cook
Sauce Secrets
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness
- Mix cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps
- Adjust sweetness to taste
- Keep sauce moving in pan to prevent sticking
Chinese Pepper Steak Variations and Substitutions
Protein Options
- Chicken breast or thigh
- Pork tenderloin
- Tofu (extra firm)
- Shrimp
Vegetable Alternatives
- Snow peas
- Mushrooms
- Broccoli
- Baby corn
- Water chestnuts
Dietary Modifications about Chinese Pepper Steak
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
- Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice
- Paleo: Use coconut aminos and arrowroot starch
- Whole30: Omit sugar and use compliant sauce alternatives
Storage and Meal Prep
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight container
- Keeps for 3-4 days
- Store sauce separately if meal prepping
- Keep rice separate from stir-fry
Freezing Instructions
- Cool completely
- Store in freezer-safe container
- Freeze up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
- Reheat gently to prevent overcooking
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Steamed white rice
- Brown rice
- Cauliflower rice
- Lo mein noodles
- Steamed vegetables
Garnishes Chinese Pepper Steak
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh cilantro
- Crispy fried onions
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (without rice):
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cut of beef for pepper steak?
Flank steak or sirloin are ideal due to their tender texture and good marbling. Ribeye can also be used for a more luxurious version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store cut vegetables and meat separately in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the meat from becoming tough?
Slice against the grain, don’t skip marinating, and avoid overcooking. Cook meat in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Can I use frozen peppers?
Fresh peppers are preferred for best texture, but frozen can be used. Thaw and drain well before cooking.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe as written is mild. Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to increase heat level.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Use hoisin sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, or additional soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Mix additional cornstarch with cold water and add gradually while stirring.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Tough Meat
- Slice thinner
- Don’t overcook
- Use proper cut of beef
- Let meat rest after cooking
Watery Sauce
- Drain vegetables well
- Use cornstarch slurry
- Cook until properly reduced
- Don’t overcrowd pan
Vegetables Too Soft
- Cook for less time
- Use high heat
- Don’t overcrowd pan
- Add in proper order
Recipe Success Tips
Temperature Control
- Use high heat for proper searing
- Preheat wok or pan thoroughly
- Work in batches to maintain temperature
- Keep ingredients moving
Timing Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting
- Cook meat first, then vegetables
- Add sauce last
- Serve immediately for best results
If you enjoy Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, you might also like these similar dishes
Conclusion
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe brings the authentic flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen. With its perfect balance of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or wanting to impress guests, this versatile dish delivers every time.
Remember to customize the recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs. The key to success lies in proper preparation and timing. Don’t forget to tag your creations with #ChinesePepperSteak and #HomemadeTakeout when sharing on social media!
Share your cooking experience and variations with others, and enjoy this delicious journey into Chinese cuisine!
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