Chinese Pepper Steak: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Delight

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Indulge in the savory and spicy flavors of Chinese Pepper Steak—a classic stir-fry dish that combines tender beef slices with crisp bell peppers and a bold black pepper sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish brings the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine to your home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Marinade:

  • 1 pound flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips

  • 1 medium onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

 Preparation Time

  • Active Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

 Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

  • In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, and freshly ground black pepper.

  • Toss to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature.

2. Prepare the Sauce

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch slurry, and sesame oil.

  • Set the sauce mixture aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add the sliced bell peppers and onion.

  • Stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

  • Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Cook the Beef

  • Push the vegetables to one side of the wok.

  • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the empty side.

  • Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer.

  • Let it sear without stirring for about 1 minute, then stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the beef is cooked through.

5. Combine and Serve

  • Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.

  • Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

  • Adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired.

  • Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Carbohydrates: 15 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 7 g

  • Sodium: 800 mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

 Tips for Perfect Chinese Pepper Steak

  • Meat Selection: Choose tender cuts like flank or skirt steak for the best texture.

  • Marinating Time: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

  • Black Pepper: Use freshly ground black pepper for a more aromatic and robust flavor.

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or snow peas for added texture and nutrition.

  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles to complete the meal.

 Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

 Visual Inspiration

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 Final Thoughts

Chinese Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of black pepper, savory beef, and crisp vegetables. Its quick preparation and satisfying taste make

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