The sizzle of steak in the pan, the vibrant hues of bell peppers, and the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger all unite to create a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. Whether cooking for family or treating yourself, this delicacy food is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe
The combination of tender steak and crisp bell peppers coated in a savory sauce is truly magical. This dish is versatile enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or tweak the sauce to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Chinese Pepper Steak
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp mirin (a sweet Japanese cooking wine)
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Steak and Peppers:
- 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 1/4 lbs beef (flank steak, skirt steak, or top sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger or ginger paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This sauce will elevate the flavors of your dish.
- Sear the Steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices in a single layer, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper. Sear until browned on both sides. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cook bell peppers and onions until they start to brown on the edges (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside with the steak.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium-low, adding a small amount of oil if necessary. Stir in minced ginger and garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk the sauce once more to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated, then pour it into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine Everything: Return the steak and vegetables to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Allow the dish to warm through for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Chinese Pepper Steak
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- Choose the Right Beef: Tender cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin work best.
- Slice Against the Grain: This ensures tenderness in every bite.
- Prep in Advance: Stir-frying is quick, so have all ingredients ready before cooking.
- Keep the Veggies Crisp: Don’t overcook the bell peppers and onions.
Customizations & Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Extra Veggies: Try adding broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
- Sweeter Sauce: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cook steak in batches to allow proper browning.
- Skipping Sauce Prep: Pre-mixing ensures a smooth and even sauce.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture.
FAQs About Chinese Pepper Steak
- Can I make it gluten-free? Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- What sides pair well with Pepper Steak? Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles complement this dish perfectly.
- Can I freeze Pepper Steak? Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Swap out beef for chicken breast or thighs and follow the same method.
- How do I thicken the sauce properly? Whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the sauce before cooking and stir continuously.
- What is mirin, and can I substitute it? Mirin is a sweet Japanese cooking wine. Substitute with a mix of dry white wine and a pinch of sugar if needed.
Chinese Pepper Steak is a delicacy food that combines bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home. So grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy a homemade Pepper Steak bursting with flavor!