Name: Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb beef steak (flank or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain); 2 cups bell peppers (mixed colors: red, green, yellow); 1 large onion (thinly sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium); 1/2 cup beef broth (homemade); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delicious dish that combines tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic onions. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful meal when you’re short on time. This recipe brings a restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen, letting you enjoy bold flavors and vibrant colors. The savory soy sauce and tender meat paired with the crunch of fresh vegetables create a taste sensation that will delight your taste buds.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet!

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Cooking Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Follow along to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

1 lb beef steak (flank or sirloin) (sliced thinly against the grain)
2 cups bell peppers (mixed colors: red, green, yellow)
1 large onion (thinly sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium is a great alternative)
1/2 cup beef broth (homemade for extra richness)
1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
1 tsp black pepper (for seasoning)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Directions

Slice the Beef: Start by thinly slicing 1 pound of flank or sirloin steak against the grain. Slicing against the grain helps ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Prepare the Vegetables: Next, slice 2 cups of mixed bell peppers and 1 large onion into thin strips. This helps them cook quickly and evenly in the skillet.
Heat the Skillet: Pour 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil into a heated skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm up until it shimmers but does not smoke.
Cook the Steak: Add the seasoned steak to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
Add Onions and Peppers: Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for another 3 minutes. This will soften the vegetables while adding flavor to the steak.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup beef broth, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix it well until the cornstarch dissolves completely.
Combine Everything: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the skillet. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Stir frequently so that all ingredients are coated and take on the rich flavor of the sauce.

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Once the dish is ready, transfer it to a large serving plate or bowl. This dish is best served hot over a bed of steamed rice or with noodles. You can also serve it with a side of crispy spring rolls or fried rice for a more complete meal. Add some chopped green onions on top for extra color and flavor.

How to Store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down to room temperature before sealing it in order to maintain its freshness. To reheat, simply microwave it for a minute or two, or warm it up in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Tips to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Slicing the Meat: To make slicing easier, place the steak in the freezer for about 30 minutes before cutting. This firms it up, allowing for cleaner cuts.
Vegetable Choices: You can experiment with other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to add variety and nutrition to the dish.
Adjusting Heat: If you enjoy more spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the recipe. For milder flavors, you can leave it out altogether.
Quick Cooking: It’s essential to keep the heat high and cook quickly in a stir-fry to maintain the tenderness of the beef and the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of meat, such as chicken or shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to change the types of peppers used based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding other seasonings or marinades can also give it an interesting twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sliced beef and vegetables in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just stir-fry and add the sauce.

2. What type of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank or sirloin steak are great choices for their tenderness and flavor. You can also use ribeye for a richer taste, or even chuck steak if you don’t mind more chewiness.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?

The traditional soy sauce used in this recipe contains gluten. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just remember to store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

5. How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it turns brown and no longer has a pink color in the center. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the slices, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a simple yet sensational meal that combines flavor, color, and texture in each bite. Give it a try, and you’ll surely find it a favorite in your home!