Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
A classic Chinese-American stir-fry made with tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions in a savory garlic-soy sauce. Better than takeout and ready in about 30 minutes!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional but adds depth)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup beef broth (or water)
1 teaspoon sugar
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, vinegar, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15–20 minutes.
2️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin (if using), cornstarch, broth, and sugar. Set aside.
3️⃣ Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Add beef in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until browned.
Remove from pan and set aside.
4️⃣ Cook the Vegetables
Add remaining oil to the pan.
Stir-fry onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Add garlic and ginger; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5️⃣ Combine & Finish
Return beef to the pan.
Pour in the sauce and stir well.
Cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.
🍚 Serve With:
Steamed white rice
Fried rice
Lo mein noodles
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
