Chinese Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of tender beef and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe has its roots in Chinese-American cuisine, where it has become a beloved staple for families seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of juicy steak, crisp bell peppers, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of taste and texture that is hard to resist.

What I love most about Chinese Pepper Steak is its versatility and convenience. It can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. The balance of flavors and the satisfying crunch of the peppers make this dish a favorite among both adults and children alike. Whether served over a bed of fluffy rice or enjoyed on its own, Chinese Pepper Steak is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 medium onion, sliced
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Cooked rice, for serving

Preparing the Marinade and Steak

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help tenderize the meat and create a nice coating. Mix well until the steak is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. 2. While the steak is marinating, slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips. I like to use a mix of colors for a vibrant dish, so feel free to use both red and green bell peppers if you have them on hand. 3. Mince the garlic and ginger. I find that using fresh ingredients really elevates the flavor of the dish, so I recommend not skipping this step!

Cooking the Steak

4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated steak in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the meat to steam instead of sear. 5. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked at this stage; it will finish cooking later when we combine it with the vegetables.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

6. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. I love the crunch of the vegetables, so I usually don’t cook them too long. 7. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This is where the aroma starts to fill your kitchen, and it’s simply delightful!

Combining Ingredients

8. Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together to combine. 9. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the steak and vegetables in the skillet. 10. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet, stirring until it thickens.

Serving the Dish

11. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. I like to taste it at this point and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want a bit more heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. 12. Serve the Chinese pepper steak over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. I usually like to garnish it with some sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. 13. Enjoy your homemade Chinese pepper steak! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Tips for Success

– Make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain. This helps to keep the meat tender and easy to chew. – If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in some broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly. – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Now that you have all the steps laid out, I hope you enjoy making

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chinese Pepper Steak recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of culinary adventure. The combination of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a side of fluffy steamed rice or crispy fried rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the bell peppers for other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or even add some heat with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. I encourage you to give this Chinese Pepper Steak recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, and I’m sure your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary skills. So grab your ingredients, fire up that wok, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Print