This Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick and delicious stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor. Tender slices of beef are paired with vibrant bell peppers and coated in a savory garlic-soy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal dinner for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a takeout-style meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Savory and Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich, satisfying sauce.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the stir-fry:
- Beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
- Red and green bell peppers, sliced
- Onion, sliced
For the sauce:
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Sugar
- Sesame oil
You’ll find the full ingredient list and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. Toss with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil and stir-fry the bell peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still crisp. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Return the beef to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook quickly and remain tender. Freeze the beef for 20 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
- High Heat is Key: Stir-fry at high heat to quickly sear the beef and vegetables, preserving their texture and flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Options: Include broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra variety.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair this Chinese Pepper Steak with:
- Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice.
- Stir-fried noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- A side of egg rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete meal.
For a drink, try iced tea or a light beer to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye work well for this recipe. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly against the grain.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute the beef with firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of water for the sauce.
4. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch in the sauce will naturally thicken it as it cooks. If it’s too thin, simmer for an extra minute or two.
Conclusion
This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is a flavorful and satisfying dinner that brings the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant to your kitchen. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home in no time!
Print
Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe: Perfect Dinner Idea
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is a classic takeout-style recipe featuring tender beef strips stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers in a savory, tangy sauce. It’s the perfect dinner idea that’s ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Steak Marinade:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 15 minutes. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water or beef broth. Set aside. - Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. - Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the bell peppers and onion for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Combine:
Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Sprinkle with black pepper and adjust seasoning if needed. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or snap peas to the stir-fry.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
- This dish can also be made with chicken or pork instead of beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 65mg