Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Introduction
Chinese pepper steak with onions is a delicious and savory dish that combines tender beef with the vibrant flavors of fresh bell peppers and onions. This classic Chinese-American recipe is a favorite for its quick preparation and delightful combination of textures. The balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
To prepare Chinese pepper steak with onions, gather the following ingredients:
1 pound of flank steak or sirloin beef, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 bell peppers (one green and one red preferred), thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
1/2 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Place the slices in a bowl and add soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sugar. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the beef evenly. Let the beef marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the beef marinates, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion and bell peppers into uniform strips. Mince the garlic and ginger, as these will provide an aromatic base for the dish.
3. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water to create a slurry. This mixture will be used later to thicken the sauce. Set it aside.
4. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in batches. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the beef is browned on all sides but not overcooked. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set it aside.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Once heated, add the sliced onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. The garlic and ginger will infuse the oil with their fragrant flavors.
6. Combine Beef and Vegetables:
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan, stirring well to ensure the sauce evenly coats the beef and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Season and Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Chinese pepper steak with onions over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your vegetables are fresh and crisp for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooking can make the beef tough. Cook it quickly over high heat for maximum tenderness.
Adjust Sauce to Taste: You can add a bit more soy sauce or sugar to adjust the flavor balance according to your preference.
This Chinese pepper steak with onions recipe is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner, this meal is sure to impress. Enjoy!