Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

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🌶️ Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

📖 Description

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a classic Chinese-American stir-fry known for its bold, savory flavors and tender beef slices. Juicy flank steak is quickly seared with crisp bell peppers and sweet onions, then tossed in a glossy soy-based sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Served hot and sizzling, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

🥩 Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

  • 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)

  • ½ cup beef broth or water

  • 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced

  • ½–1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

🍳 Instructions

  1. Marinate the Steak
    In a bowl, combine steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Sauce
    Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.

  3. Sear the Beef
    Heat 1 tbsp oil in a hot wok or skillet over high heat. Add steak in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  4. Cook the Vegetables
    Add remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

  5. Add Aromatics
    Add garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  6. Combine & Sizzle
    Return steak to the pan. Pour in sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the steak.

  7. Serve Hot
    Serve immediately while sizzling, over rice or noodles.

📝 Recipe Notes

  • Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.

  • High heat is essential for authentic stir-fry flavor.

  • Freshly cracked black pepper gives the dish its signature kick.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • 🔥 Preheat the pan until very hot before adding oil.

  • 🥩 Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook beef in batches if needed.

  • 🧂 Adjust soy sauce and pepper levels to suit your taste.

  • 🥦 Add mushrooms or snow peas for extra vegetables.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Serving Size: ~1½ cups per serving

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 350 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Carbohydrates: 20 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 850 mg

🌟 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.

  • Rich in Iron: Helps improve energy and red blood cell production.

  • Vegetable-Packed: Bell peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants.

  • Balanced Meal: Combines protein, healthy fats, and carbs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak work well.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: It’s mildly spicy from black pepper. Add chili flakes for more heat.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but leftovers keep well for up to 2 days refrigerated.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.

Q: What can I serve with pepper steak?
A: Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, lo mein, or cauliflower rice.

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