Ah, Easy Chinese Pepper Steak! Just saying those words makes my mouth water and my heart smile. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a local Chinese restaurant—it was a whirlwind of flavors that danced on my taste buds, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. It’s a quick, colorful stir-fry that makes me feel like I’m in a bustling market in Beijing, and I love how simple it is to whip up, especially after a long day.
This recipe is perfect for those weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in—trust me, if you’re anything like me, the vibrant colors of those bell peppers will make you smile and feel good about your dinner choice!
What’s in Easy Chinese Pepper Steak?
Let’s break it down—here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
Flank Steak: A lean cut of meat that cooks quickly and has incredible flavor when sliced against the grain. It’s my go-to for stir-fries!
Vegetable Oil: This is what we’ll use for frying. I usually go for canola or corn oil because they have a high smoke point and don’t add any additional flavors.
Green and Red Bell Peppers: They add stunning color and a sweet crunch to the dish. I love the contrast they bring, and the more colorful, the better!
Onion: Sliced onion brings a sweetness to the dish that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic superstars are the heart and soul of any Asian cooking for me. Together, they create an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen!
Soy Sauce: A must-have for that umami punch! I usually reach for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things on the healthier side.
Oyster Sauce: This provides a rich, savory flavor that enhances the dish. It brings that authentic taste that makes you go, “Wow!”
Cornstarch: A little thickener that helps create a beautiful glaze around the beef.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of this fragrant oil at the end takes the flavor to a whole new level. I can seriously smell it from a mile away!
Black Pepper: Just a sprinkle to kick things up a notch!
Sesame Seeds: These little gems are not just for garnish! They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to finish off the dish.
Cooked Rice: The perfect bed for all these delicious flavors; it soaks up the sauce beautifully!
Is Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish has a mix of protein and vegetables, making it quite balanced.
Flank Steak: It’s a lean cut providing a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Bell Peppers: These beauties are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to your overall health. Plus, the vibrant colors mean you’re getting a variety of nutrients.
Garlic and Ginger: Both are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can boost your immune system, so you might not feel quite so guilty about that second helping!
Just remember, while it’s healthy, portion control is key—especially if you’re diving into those heaping bowls of rice!
Ingredients
– 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Cooked rice (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people, so gather your friends and family!
How to Make Easy Chinese Pepper Steak?
1. In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Give it a good toss and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. (You can also leave it longer if you have time—it deepens the flavor!)
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until browned. Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan, or it might steam rather than sear! Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add your sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry those beauties for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crispy.
4. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant. Oh, the aroma now is heavenly!
5. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and pour in the sesame oil. Stir well to combine everything, cooking for another 2 minutes until heated through. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving, and make sure to serve it hot over that delicious cooked rice. Enjoy your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak!
Flavor Variations and Tips for the Perfect Dish!
Want to switch things up? Here are a few tips:
– If you’re not a beef fan, try chicken or tofu instead! Both options will soak up the flavors beautifully.
– Add some heat with sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
– Don’t hesitate to throw in other vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work great too!
I hope you dive into this recipe with excitement and enjoy every moment of cooking it. It’s a little bit of joy and love served on a plate! And don’t forget to share your experience with me—I love hearing how it turns out! Happy cooking!
