Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

If you have a craving for something that’s both hearty and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to the delightful world of Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. This dish is a wonderful balance of tender, thinly sliced flank steak perfectly coated in a savory sauce, married with the sweet crunch of onions and colorful bell peppers. Each bite offers a comforting mix of umami, spice, and freshness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your favorite weeknight dinners or quick lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is simple and essential for capturing the authentic taste and texture of Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. Each element brings something special to the table—whether it’s the vibrant crunch of bell peppers, the rich depth of oyster sauce, or the tender juiciness of the marinated steak.

• Flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain to ensure tenderness in every bite.
• Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami punch to both marinade and sauce.
• Cornstarch: Helps lock in moisture during marination and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty aroma that’s quintessential in Chinese cuisine.
• Vegetable or peanut oil: Perfect for high-heat stir-frying without smoking.
• Onion: Sliced to release sweetness and contrast texture.
• Red and green bell peppers: Provide vibrant color and fresh crunchiness.
• Garlic: Minced for that pungent, aromatic kick.
• Ginger: Freshly grated to offer a subtle zing that brightens the dish.
• Beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Oyster sauce: Delivers a luscious, savory complexity that’s hard to resist.
• Black pepper: Brings the signature mild heat that defines Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions.
• Steamed rice or noodles: The perfect base to soak up all the tasty sauce.

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by tossing the thin slices of flank steak in a bowl with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade not only seasons the meat but also helps tenderize it, giving you juicy steak in every bite. Letting it rest for 10 to 15 minutes allows those flavors to soak in and makes all the difference.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry

Heat a tablespoon of your chosen oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the steak quickly—just 2 to 3 minutes until it’s browned but not fully cooked through. This step locks in juices and creates that beautiful caramelization. Once done, remove the steak and set it aside to keep the process moving smoothly.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Next, add the remaining oil to the pan and toss in the sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften just enough to release their natural sweetness but still retain a nice crunch. This layer of fresh veggies adds texture and bursts of color that make the dish visually exciting.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper. Pour this savory mixture into the pan with veggies and bring it to a simmer. The oyster sauce contributes a rich, almost smoky complexity, while the beef broth keeps everything hearty. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and watch as the sauce thickens perfectly to coat every ingredient.

Step 5: Combine Steak and Vegetables

Return the steak to the pan and toss everything together, ensuring each piece is enveloped in that luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes so the steak finishes cooking and the sauce fully thickens. This melding of ingredients is where the magic of Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions truly comes alive.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your masterpiece hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles, allowing the savory sauce to soak through and elevate every forkful. The combination is irresistible and makes for a fulfilling meal that feels special but is super easy to whip up.

How to Serve Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can turn a simple dish into a feast for the senses. Sprinkle freshly chopped scallions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top for a bit of crunch and a pop of green that complements the bold flavors perfectly. A few thin slices of fresh red chili can add a vibrant heat if you like your dishes with a kick.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with classic steamed jasmine rice or soft, slippery egg noodles that soak up the sauce beautifully. For extra texture and nutrition, consider serving alongside stir-fried bok choy or a light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. These sides will balance the richness of the steak and keep your meal feeling fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions in lettuce wraps—lettuce’s crisp freshness makes for a delightful texture contrast. Alternatively, try plating it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If you’re entertaining, arrange the dish family-style in a vibrant, shallow bowl so everyone can dig in and savor the combination of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (and sometimes it’s hard not to eat it all right away), store the Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days without losing its delicious character.

Freezing

While the dish tastes best freshly made, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. Freeze for up to two months. To avoid soggy vegetables, it’s best to freeze the steak and sauce separately if possible.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat to keep the steak tender and vegetables crisp. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of beef broth or water to revive its luscious consistency. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it may dry out the steak.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, sirloin or skirt steak are also great alternatives. Just slice thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.

What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?

If oyster sauce isn’t handy, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar. The flavor won’t be identical but still delicious and slightly sweet.

Is this dish spicy?

Traditionally, Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is mildly spicy due to the black pepper. You can adjust the heat by adding fresh chili or chili flakes for a more pronounced kick or leave it out for a gentle warmth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the steak for firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The sauce and vegetables still deliver a wonderful umami-rich experience without meat.

How long does marinating the steak improve the flavor?

Marinating for 10 to 15 minutes is sufficient to infuse flavor and help with tenderness. Longer marination is possible but not necessary—as the thin slices absorb the marinade quickly.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough to impress guests. So go on, give this recipe a try—you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous plate of tender steak, sweet onions, and peppery goodness that’s hard to resist!

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