Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Bold Flavors : A mix of black pepper, soy sauce, and garlic creates a rich, umami-packed sauce.
3. Customizable Heat : Adjust the amount of pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
4. Versatile : Serve with rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit with family or guests.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4

For the Steak:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin , thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for marinating)
• 1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For Stir-Frying:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion , sliced into thin strips
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 red bell pepper (optional, for color and crunch)
• Cooked white or brown rice , for serving

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 15–20 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions (and bell pepper, if using) and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes , until slightly softened but still crisp. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side , until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds , until fragrant.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes , until the sauce thickens.
3. Add the beef and onions back to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for 1–2 minutes , until the beef is cooked through and coated in the sauce.

4. Step 6: Serve

   1. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with extra black pepper or sesame seeds if desired.

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   Why This Recipe Works

   • Marination Magic : Cornstarch tenderizes the beef and helps it absorb the flavors of the sauce.
   • Peppery Kick : Black pepper adds warmth without overwhelming the dish.
   • Quick Cooking : High heat ensures the beef stays tender and the vegetables retain their crunch.

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   Variations to Try

   • Spice It Up : Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
   • Add Veggies : Include broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
   • Gluten-Free Option : Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.
   • Vegan Version : Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

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   Tips for Success

   • Slice Against the Grain : This ensures the beef is tender and easy to chew.
   • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan : Cook the beef in batches to avoid steaming instead of searing.
   • Adjust Sweetness : Taste the sauce before adding the slurry and adjust the sugar or hoisin sauce to your liking.
   • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

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   Serving Suggestions

   • Classic Pairing : Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice.
   • Noodle Swap : Toss with lo mein or udon noodles for a hearty meal.
   • Romantic Plating : Garnish with thinly sliced green onions or sesame seeds for elegance.

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   Final Thoughts

   This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion is a flavor-packed dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly satisfying. With its tender beef, caramelized onions, and peppery sauce, it’s a comforting meal that brings the best of Chinese takeout to your kitchen.

   Your turn! Have you tried making pepper steak at home? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 

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