Few dishes bring the heat and flavor of Chinese cuisine to your home quite like the classic Pepper Steak with Onions. Known for its tender slices of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a sauce bursting with umami, this dish has long been a favorite among home cooks and restaurant-goers alike. Whether you’re looking to master a quick weeknight dinner or impress a dinner guest with your culinary skills, this recipe is for you.
But what makes Chinese Pepper Steak so special, and how can you achieve restaurant-quality results at home? This post covers the history, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and more to help you perfect this iconic Asian-inspired dish.
The Dish That Captured Our Taste Buds
Originating from Chinese-American cuisine, Pepper Steak blends the bold flavors of traditional Chinese stir-fry with Western preferences for hearty, beef-centric meals. It first gained popularity in the U.S. during the mid-20th century as Chinese immigrants adapted their cooking techniques to cater to local palates.
What sets Pepper Steak apart is its combination of tender beef slices, fresh veggies, and rich, savory sauce. The result? A harmony of textures and tastes that satisfies every craving.
Today, it remains a must-have dish on almost every Chinese restaurant menu worldwide. With this recipe, you can bring its sizzling goodness from wok to table in just 30 minutes.
Tips for the Best Chinese Pepper Steak
- Knife Skills Matter: Always slice the beef against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear.
- Keep Vegetables Crisp: Slightly undercook the onions and peppers to retain their crunch and vibrant colors.
Additional Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Preheat Your Cookware: Always heat your skillet or wok before adding the ingredients. A hot pan ensures a proper sear and prevents sticking.
- Marinate for Flavor: For enhanced taste, marinate the beef for at least 20 minutes before cooking. A soy sauce-based marinade works exceptionally well.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cuts of beef make a noticeable difference in both flavor and texture.
- Control the Heat: Start with high heat for searing and adjust to medium as you add the sauce to avoid burning.
- Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready since stir-fried dishes cook quickly.
- Thicken the Sauce: For a glossy, restaurant-style finish, use a cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) to thicken the sauce lightly.
Variations to Try
- Add a Kick: Stir in red chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns for a spicy version.
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the steak for firm tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free alternative.
- Use Different Veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn also work well in this dish.
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting Board and Knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp soy sauce for marinade
- 2 tbsp sesame oil divided
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger minced
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Optional Garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp green onions chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, toss the sliced steak with cornstarch and soy sauce. Let it marinate for 15 minutes while you prep the veggies and sauce.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and water. Set aside.
- Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4: Add the remaining sesame oil to the skillet. Sauté onions, red and green bell peppers, garlic, and ginger for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
- Step 5: Return the steak to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and marinate the steak in advance to save time. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and cook everything fresh when ready to serve.
2. What type of steak works best for this recipe?
Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Be sure to thinly slice the steak against the grain for the best texture.
3. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Feel free to adjust the soy sauce, garlic, or spices depending on your preference. For a sweeter flavor, add a touch of honey or brown sugar. For more spice, increase the chili flakes or use fresh chili peppers.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Double-check all other ingredient labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Make This Recipe Tonight
This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the tips provided, and enjoy a homemade dish bursting with flavor and satisfaction.
Few dishes are as flavorful or easy to make as this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests, this dish balances bold sauces with fresh, crisp vegetables and tender beef.