Have you ever craved the rich, savory flavors of takeout-style pepper steak but wished you could make it at home? This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe is here to save the day! With tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a deliciously balanced sauce, it’s the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying dinner. Plus, it’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity, versatility, and incredible taste. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to impress guests. By making it at home, you can control the ingredients, adjust the spice level, and save money. It’s a win-win!
Ingredients for Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe
For the Steak Marinade
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ cup water or beef broth
For the Stir-Fry
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
- Combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl.
- Toss everything until the beef is evenly coated, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures the meat is tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water (or beef broth).
- Set the sauce aside—you’ll use it later to bring all the flavors together.
3. Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in the bell peppers and onions, stirring frequently for 3–4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and optional grated ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Let it cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Sprinkle with black pepper and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the pepper steak to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pepper Steak
1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
For the most tender results, use sirloin or flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain for easier cooking and a more enjoyable texture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cooking the beef in a single layer ensures it browns evenly and develops that irresistible flavor.
3. Use Fresh Vegetables
Crisp, fresh bell peppers and onions provide the perfect contrast to the tender beef and rich sauce. Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.
4. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste
If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (serves 4):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 25g |
Fat | 14g |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugars | 6g |
Variations and Substitutions
1. Vegetarian Option
Swap the beef for firm tofu or seitan. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce.
2. Low-Carb Alternative
Serve your pepper steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to make it keto-friendly.
3. Extra Veggies
Add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for a more nutrient-packed stir-fry.
4. Gluten-Free Version
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure all sauces used are labeled gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Pepper steak can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs work beautifully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What’s the best way to slice beef thinly?
Partially freeze the beef for about 20 minutes before slicing. This firms it up, making it easier to cut thin slices.
3. Can I skip the marinating step?
While it’s not mandatory, marinating the beef enhances its flavor and keeps it tender. If you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute marinade can make a difference.
4. What can I serve with pepper steak?
Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles are classic options. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Stir it well before using.
6. Is pepper steak spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can add heat with chili flakes, Sriracha, or diced chili peppers.
Conclusion
Making Easy Chinese Pepper Steak at home is a rewarding experience that delivers bold, authentic flavors in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please. With its tender beef, vibrant veggies, and rich sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest.
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Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe: A Flavorful Weeknight Favorite
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Craving takeout-style pepper steak? This easy recipe combines tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick and satisfying. Skip the delivery and enjoy a homemade version that’s just as delicious, if not better!
Ingredients
For the Steak Marinade
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ cup water or beef broth
For the Stir-Fry
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef
- Combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Toss until evenly coated and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water (or beef broth). Set aside.
- Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil. Stir-fry bell peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Combine Everything
- Return the beef to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat everything. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with black pepper.
- Serve and Garnish
- Serve the pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles and garnish with green onions.
Notes
- Choose the Right Beef: Use sirloin or flank steak and slice thinly against the grain.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook beef in a single layer for optimal browning.
- Fresh Veggies: Use crisp bell peppers and onions for a perfect contrast in texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese