Chinese Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that marries the bold flavors of tender flank steak, fresh vegetables, and an inviting sauce, making it a beloved choice for many home cooks. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight when I craved something comforting yet quick to prepare. With its savory aroma and vibrant colors, it transformed my kitchen into a cozy haven, and I’m sure it will do the same for you. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe showcases the beauty of Chinese cuisine in a simple 30-minute dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
When it comes to weeknight meals, Chinese Pepper Steak checks all the boxes. It’s quick, economical, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for families and food enthusiasts alike. The combination of juicy flank steak, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions is not only visually appealing but also utterly delicious. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want to serve something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
"I made this for dinner last night, and it was a hit with the whole family! The flavors are delightful, and it came together so quickly!" – A happy home cook
Step-by-Step Overview
Ready to dive in? Here’s a quick walkthrough of how to create this delicious dish. The process begins with marinating the flank steak to infuse flavors, followed by stir-frying the meat until tender. Then, the colorful vegetables are cooked to perfection, followed by combining everything with a rich beef broth to create a delightful sauce. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve over steamed rice.
What You’ll Need
To prepare this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you’re looking to make substitutions, you can swap the flank steak for another cut of beef or even chicken for a different flavor profile. The bell pepper can be replaced with other vegetables like snow peas or broccoli for a tasty twist.
Directions to Follow
- Begin by marinating the thinly sliced flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the marinated steak in a single layer. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until browned, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Return the steak to the skillet, pour in the beef broth, and stir everything together.
- Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately over steamed rice.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Chinese Pepper Steak is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice or alongside a hot bowl of fried rice for a filling experience. Consider adding some crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of jasmine tea or a light beer works beautifully to complement the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the Chinese Pepper Steak to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, the best method is to use a skillet over low heat or a microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water during the cooking process.
- Fresh ginger can be added alongside the garlic for an aromatic kick.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try swapping the flank steak for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You could also toss in other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or even mushrooms to change the flavor profile. For a spicy twist, add chili paste or sliced jalapeños to the mix!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for quick weeknight dinners.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze Chinese Pepper Steak. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it should last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you’re looking for a replacement, a mix of soy sauce and hoisin sauce works well in a pinch.
Chinese Pepper Steak
A quick and flavorful dish featuring tender flank steak and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch for about 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated steak in a single layer and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until browned, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Return the steak to the skillet, pour in the beef broth, and stir everything together.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and heats through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately over steamed rice.
Notes
Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch mixed with water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg