Description
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions & Peppers is a flavorful stir-fry dish that combines tender slices of beef, colorful bell peppers, and onions in a savory soy-based sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and delivers the authentic taste of Chinese-style cooking at home. The dish balances savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors with the natural crunch of vegetables, making it a satisfying meal when served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional for spice)
- Cooked white rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine beef slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little black pepper. Mix well and set aside for 15 minutes to marinate.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned but not fully cooked. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic, ginger, and onion for 2 minutes. Add bell peppers and cook until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Return the beef to the pan. Stir in oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, beef broth, sugar, and chili flakes. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or black pepper if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Notes
This recipe can be customized with different cuts of beef such as ribeye or top round. If you prefer a lighter version, use chicken or tofu instead of beef. Adding colorful peppers like yellow or orange enhances both the flavor and presentation.
Tips
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. Use a hot wok or skillet to ensure a quick sear and prevent the beef from becoming tough. Marinating the beef is key to achieving authentic restaurant-style texture. If you like a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.
Health Benefits
Chinese Pepper Steak is rich in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. Bell peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants that boost immunity and skin health. Onions offer anti-inflammatory compounds and support heart health. Using less oil and a low-sodium soy sauce makes this dish heart-friendly. The combination of lean beef and vegetables ensures a balanced intake of nutrients.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and slice the vegetables in advance. Cook the beef fresh to maintain tenderness.
Q: What can I serve with Chinese Pepper Steak?
A: Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles pair well with this dish.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes, replace the beef with firm tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based option.
Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add extra red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet for best results.