Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, a dish that effortlessly combines the richness of tender beef with the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables. Hailing from the heart of Chinese cuisine, this dish offers a symphony of tastes—savory, sweet, and with just a hint of spice. What makes this dish particularly special is not just its incredible flavor, but also the stir-frying technique that brings a sizzle to the table, making every bite a crunchy, juicy delight.

Imagine the aroma of marinated flank steak, mingling with the crispy bell peppers and sweet onions, filling your kitchen with scents that beckon everyone to gather around the dinner table. This recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in about 35 minutes. It’s perfect for those looking to impress guests with minimal effort while delivering a taste experience reminiscent of your favorite restaurant.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also highly adaptable. You can switch up the vegetables, adjust the heat level to your liking, or even try different types of protein. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding to make. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, where you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• *For the Steak Marinade:*
• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• *For the Stir-Fry:*
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (any color)
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Cooked white rice or steamed rice, for serving

Preparation Method

To begin, marinate the flank steak. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. This marinade is what will imbue the beef with flavor while keeping it tender. Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the bowl and toss it gently, ensuring that each piece is well coated in the marinade. Allow this to marinate for at least 15 minutes—this step is crucial for maximizing the flavor and tenderness of the beef. If you have more time, consider marinating it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to even an hour for deeper flavor.

While the steak marinates, prepare the stir-fry sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. This sauce is what brings everything together, merging savory and sweet elements with a slight tang. Set this aside for later use.

Next, it’s time to cook the steak. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the marinated steak; this will help achieve that beautiful caramelized sear. Carefully add the steak in a single layer—avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of searing. Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for a deep brown coloring. Once browned and cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Now, using the same skillet or wok, you’re ready to stir-fry the vegetables. If necessary, add a bit more oil to the pan. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the hot skillet. Stir-fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to become tender yet still crisp. The goal is to retain some crunch while tenderizing the vegetables, which will enhance the overall texture of the dish.

As the vegetables are cooking, add the minced garlic and ginger. These aromatic ingredients will infuse the dish with a fragrant warmth that’s hard to resist. Cook this mixture for another 30 seconds or until the garlic is fragrant and not burnt—burnt garlic can introduce an unpleasant bitterness.

Next, it's time to combine all elements of the dish. Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce. Stir everything together to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

To thicken the sauce, give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir to redistribute the cornstarch that may have settled, and then pour it into the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. The sauce should now coat the steak and vegetables nicely, providing a luxurious finish to your dish.

Finally, it’s time to serve your creation. Spoon the sizzling Chinese pepper steak with onions over a bed of cooked white rice or steamed rice. The rice acts as a perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Tips and Conclusion

For a fantastic variation, feel free to swap out the vegetables. Snow peas, broccoli, or even carrots can add a lovely crunch and additional nutrition to your dish. If you're looking to spice things up further, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the marinade or sauce for an extra kick. This dish also works wonderfully with different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them over medium heat in a skillet to serve again.
Preparing Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is not only an enjoyable experience but also results in a delicious dish that brings the family together. The balance of flavors, textures, and enticing aromas makes this recipe a must-try. With its simple preparation method and adaptability, this meal is designed to fit into a busy lifestyle while still feeling indulgent.

Explore more recipes that celebrate the rich flavors of Asian cuisine right here on our site. Perhaps you’d like to create a classic fried rice to accompany your pepper steak or whip up a delightful stir-fried noodle dish as a follow-up. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, inspiring them to enjoy the art of cooking and the pleasures of a homemade meal. Happy cooking!