This Chinese Pepper Steak is a colorful dish featuring tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and a tasty sauce that brings everything together. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip this up on busy nights. Serve it with rice, and you’ll have a meal that feels special but didn’t take hours to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: These cuts work well because they’re tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use skirt steak, or even chicken or tofu for a lighter dish!
Bell Peppers: I love using both green and red bell peppers for their color and crunch. If you don’t have these, you can swap in yellow or orange peppers, or even snap peas for a fun twist.
Soy Sauce: This adds that classic umami flavor. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can also use coconut aminos for a sweeter option.
Oyster Sauce: The oyster sauce lends depth to the dish. If you’re vegetarian or keeping it plant-based, use mushroom sauce instead. It gives a similar richness!
Ginger: Minced ginger adds a kick of flavor. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, though fresh is always better for taste!
How Can I Ensure My Beef is Tender?
To get that melt-in-your-mouth beef, marinating is key! The soy sauce and cornstarch help tenderize the meat. Here’s the process to follow:
- Slice your steak against the grain into thin strips. This breaks up the muscle fibers and keeps it tender.
- Mix it with soy sauce and cornstarch, and let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes. For best results, do this longer if you have time!
- When cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook it in batches if needed. This helps to sear the meat instead of steaming it.
With these tips, your Chinese Pepper Steak will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Chinese Pepper Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For Stir-Frying:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
For Garnish:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chinese Pepper Steak can be prepared in about 30 minutes. It includes 15 minutes of marinating the beef, with another 15 minutes for cooking the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced steak with the tablespoon of soy sauce and teaspoon of cornstarch. Mix it well so the beef is evenly coated. Let this marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak to the pan and stir-fry quickly until the beef is browned but not fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Stir-Frying the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, minced ginger (if using), and chopped onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onions begin to soften.
4. Adding Bell Peppers:
Add the chopped green and red bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, cooking until the peppers are tender yet still crisp.
5. Bring It All Together:
Return the partially cooked steak to the pan with the vegetables. Give everything a good mix to combine.
6. Sauce It Up:
In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sugar, and beef broth or water. Pour this delicious sauce over the steak and veggies, stirring well to ensure everything is nicely coated.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and stir it in. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes shiny.
8. Final Seasoning:
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors according to your preference.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a lovely touch. Serve this vibrant dish hot over steamed white rice for a complete meal!
Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Chinese Pepper Steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are great for tenderness and flavor, you can also use skirt steak, ribeye, or even chicken or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Get My Beef to Be Tender?
To ensure tender beef, marinate it for at least 15 minutes with soy sauce and cornstarch. This helps to break down the muscle fibers. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking, as this can steam the meat instead of searing it.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and slice your vegetables ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. For the best flavor, cook and serve the dish fresh—store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What Should I Serve with Chinese Pepper Steak?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it over fried rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra crunch and nutrition!
