Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, look no further than Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. This vibrant dish combines tender flank steak with colorful bell peppers and aromatic onions, all tossed together in a savory sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of around 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends.

In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of the cooking process, provide tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you master this delightful stir-fry. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and aromas that make this dish a standout at any dinner table!

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 lb flank steak (sliced thin)
2 bell peppers (sliced) – Use any color of your choice; a combination of red and green adds vibrancy and sweetness.
1 large onion (sliced) – Yellow onions are commonly used, but you can substitute with red or white onions for a different flavor.

3 garlic cloves (minced) – Fresh garlic gives an aromatic punch that blends well with the savory sauce.

Marinade and Sauce Ingredients

2 tbsp soy sauce – Adds salty, umami richness to the marinade and sauce.
1 tbsp oyster sauce – Gives the sauce a smooth, savory depth.

1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and coats the steak, giving it a velvety texture.
1/4 cup water – Used to balance and thin out the sauce.
2 tbsp oil – Vegetable or peanut oil is ideal for high-heat stir-frying.

1 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper gives the dish its signature spice.
1 tsp sugar – Balances out the saltiness and enhances the overall flavor.

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by marinating the steak. Thinly slice the flank steak across the grain, which will ensure the meat remains tender during cooking. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch. Toss the sliced steak in the mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes. The soy sauce will infuse the meat with flavor, while the cornstarch creates a protective coating to keep it juicy during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the steak is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, keeping them uniform so they cook evenly. Slice the onion into half-moons, and mince the garlic cloves. Set all the prepared vegetables aside.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the wok. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir-fry the steak for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned and just cooked through. Remove the steak from the wok and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic first and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a bit of their crisp texture. You want the bell peppers to remain vibrant and slightly crunchy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the browned steak to the wok with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce, sugar, and water. Stir everything together to ensure the steak and vegetables are coated evenly with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cooking Notes

Meat Substitution: You can easily replace the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a lighter and more diet-friendly version. Tofu absorbs flavors well and provides a great plant-based alternative.
Spice Level: If you prefer a bit more heat, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies when cooking the vegetables. For a milder version, stick to just the black pepper.
Serving Options: This pepper steak is best served over a bed of steamed rice for a classic pairing or try it with noodles for a different texture. You can also serve it alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Serving Suggestions

This sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is best enjoyed hot, straight from the wok. Serve it over:

Steamed White Rice or Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the rich sauce, making each bite flavorful.
Noodles: Egg noodles or rice noodles make for a delightful combination with this stir-fry.
Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier alternative, consider serving the pepper steak over quinoa or cauliflower rice to cut down on carbs but not on flavor.

Garnish with freshly chopped scallions or sesame seeds for an added touch of freshness and crunch.

Tips for Success

Cooking in Batches: If your wok or skillet is small, cook the steak in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Cornstarch Coating: The cornstarch used in the marinade helps to tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce, so don’t skip this step.
Prepping Ahead: Slice all your vegetables and steak ahead of time so you can quickly cook everything once you start. This dish comes together fast, so having all the ingredients ready will make the process smooth.

Cooking Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 400
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 850mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard serving sizes.)

FAQs

Q: Can I use another cut of beef instead of flank steak?

A: Yes, other tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye also work well for this recipe. Just ensure to slice the meat thinly across the grain for tenderness.

Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Just swap out regular soy sauce and oyster sauce for their gluten-free counterparts, which are readily available in most grocery stores.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the sauce as it simmers. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: You can certainly prep the vegetables and marinate the steak ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry everything just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a quick and easy stir-fry recipe that delivers big on taste and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it with family during a weeknight dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this dish will always satisfy. The mix of tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and aromatic onions in a flavorful sauce makes every bite irresistible. Enjoy this restaurant-style dish right at home and impress everyone with your culinary skills!

This flavorful pepper steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant colors, delicious aromas, and satisfying textures. With its simplicity and versatility, it is a dish that every home cook can master. Happy cooking!

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Recipe