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Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

A quick and comforting stir-fry featuring seared beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful soy sauce glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced Slice thinly across the grain for the most tender bites.
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced Mixing colors gives a sweeter, more balanced flavor.
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced Mixing colors gives a sweeter, more balanced flavor.
  • 1 yellow or orange bell pepper sliced Mixing colors gives a sweeter, more balanced flavor.
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost.
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch This helps make the sauce glossy and cling to the beef and veggies.
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but amazing)
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, beef broth (or water), oyster sauce, and black pepper to whisk the sauce until smooth and slightly glossy.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
  3. Sear the thinly sliced beef in a single layer until the edges turn golden-brown, about 1-2 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but vibrant.
  5. Push the vegetables to the side, then add minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Stir quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Return the beef to the pan, pour the sauce over everything, and toss to coat. Allow the sauce to thicken and become glossy, about 2 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve hot over steamed rice or toss with noodles for a heartier meal. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

Slice the steak the night before for quicker preparation. If the meat becomes overcooked, add a splash of beef broth and cook briefly to soften it. For added flavor, stir in a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil at the end or add sliced shiitake mushrooms.