Chinese pepper steak with onions!

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Making Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delicious dish at home:

1. Prep the Ingredients:

Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat will be tender and easy to chew. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips and cut the onion into wedges. Mince the garlic and set it aside.

2. Marinate the Beef:

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and black pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss to coat. Allow the beef to marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.

3. Make the Sauce:

In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a little water. This mixture will create the thick, flavorful sauce that coats the beef and vegetables.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

5. Cook the Beef:

In the same skillet or wok, add a little more sesame oil if needed, then add the marinated beef. Stir-fry the beef for about 3-4 minutes until it is cooked through and slightly browned.

6. Combine Everything:

Once the beef is cooked, add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, return the vegetables to the pan along with the sauce mixture. Stir everything together to coat the beef and vegetables in the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the sauce has thickened, your Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is ready to serve! Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles and enjoy this flavorful, hearty dish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chinese Pepper Steak

• Beef Cut: The key to tender beef in stir-fries is to slice it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers and results in a much more tender bite.
• Veggie Texture: To avoid overcooking the bell peppers and onions, be sure to stir-fry them just until they’re tender-crisp. This way, they’ll retain their natural crunch and vibrant color.
• Sauce Adjustments: You can adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a little extra sugar. If you prefer a saltier flavor, add a splash more soy sauce.
• Add Heat: If you like a little spice in your stir-fry, add some sliced fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.

Why This Dish is So Special

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a stir-fry that combines tender beef with crunchy vegetables and a savory sauce. Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a dish that delivers on both flavor and texture, and it’s so versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty weeknight meal or even serve it at a dinner party. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of technique, you can recreate the bold, satisfying flavors of Chinese-American cuisine right at home.

This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a favorite among many. It’s easy to customize, so you can adjust the heat, sweetness, and texture to suit your preferences. Best of all, it’s quick to make, making it a fantastic choice when you need a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delicious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the essence of Chinese stir-fry to your kitchen. With tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for serving over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a special dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!