Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions & Peppers

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Introduction:

Chinese Pepper Steak is a classic takeout favorite that originated as a Chinese-American dish, inspired by Cantonese stir-fries. It features marinated strips of beef stir-fried with bell peppers and onions in a garlicky, peppery brown sauce. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking to recreate your favorite takeout meal or want something quick and tasty for dinner, this recipe hits the spot.

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📝 Ingredients:

For the Beef Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp baking soda (optional, for extra tender beef)
• 1 tsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (light)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for a slightly sweet depth)
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Stir-Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced into wedges
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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🔪 Method & Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
2. In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, baking soda, and oil. Mix well and let marinate for 15–30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

3. In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauces (light and dark), oyster sauce, hoisin (if using), cornstarch, beef broth, sugar, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

4. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
5. Add the onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the same pan.
7. Add marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear for 30 seconds without moving, then stir-fry until mostly cooked through, about 2–3 minutes.
8. Add garlic and ginger (if using), stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

9. Return the cooked onions and peppers to the pan.
10. Give the sauce another stir (to re-mix the cornstarch) and pour it into the wok.
11. Toss everything together until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and vegetables (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 6: Serve

12. Remove from heat. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
13. Serve hot over steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles.

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