Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender beef strips stir-fried with bell peppers in a savory, umami-rich sauce. This takeout-inspired recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs well with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
  • Tender beef stir-fried with crisp bell peppers.
  • Savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed sauce.
  • Pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Cornstarch
  • Bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
  • Onion, sliced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Ginger, minced
  • Brown sugar
  • Beef broth or water
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Green onions for garnish

Directions

  1. In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
  3. Stir-fry the beef for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add more oil and sauté garlic, ginger, onions, and bell peppers until fragrant and slightly tender.
  5. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the oyster sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and black pepper. Stir well.
  6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or sriracha.
  • Vegetable Addition: Include mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn.
  • Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth.
  • Sweet and Savory: Add a splash of hoisin sauce for extra depth.
  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

What’s the best cut of beef for pepper steak?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best for tender, flavorful results.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Substitute thinly sliced chicken breast for an equally delicious dish.

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Marinate with cornstarch and soy sauce for at least 10 minutes before cooking.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Fresh bell peppers provide the best texture, but frozen can work in a pinch.

What sides pair well with pepper steak?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles are great options.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and slice the beef ahead for easy cooking.

How do I prevent the beef from overcooking?

Cook over high heat for a short time and remove it from the pan once browned.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes! Peanut oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil all work well for stir-frying.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Use a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken the sauce if needed.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute tofu for beef and use a plant-based oyster sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is a delicious and satisfying dish that comes together quickly with bold flavors and simple ingredients. Whether served over rice or noodles, this homemade takeout classic is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today!

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Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Description

A classic takeout-style dish featuring tender beef strips stir-fried with bell peppers in a flavorful garlic-ginger soy sauce.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef – Toss beef slices with 2 tbsp cornstarch in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes (this helps with tenderness).
  2. Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, beef broth, cornstarch, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef – Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef and sear for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Cook the Vegetables – In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil and sauté bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. Combine & Simmer – Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Serve – Enjoy hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Notes

  • Tender Beef Tip: Freeze the steak for 15 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • Substitutes: Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a variation.
  • Spicy Option: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha!

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