Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

If you’ve been craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor but simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, this Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender slices of flank steak mingle with colorful bell peppers and a savory sauce that hits all the right notes — savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly peppery. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels both special and satisfying, and once you master it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on a few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious dish. Each item brings its own magic to the plate, whether it’s adding tender texture, vibrant color, or deep umami flavor that makes the stir-fry come alive.

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade): Adds savory depth and helps tenderize the beef.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Coats the beef for a silky, thickened finish.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers sweetness and a pop of bright color.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a slightly bitter crunch that balances the flavors.
• 1 small onion, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and aromatic qualities.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of fragrant flavor.
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and zesty brightness.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil: For perfect stir-frying without burning.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce): Creates a rich savory backbone.
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a luscious umami boost to the mix.
• 1/4 cup water: Helps blend and loosen the sauce for coating.
• 1 tsp sugar: Balances the salty and savory components with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: Adds a toasty finish and irresistible aroma.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Delivers that quintessential pepper steak kick.

How to Make Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by combining the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also prepares it for a silky texture when cooked. Let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes while you prep your veggies—this little wait makes a big difference.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying them just until they begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. This keeps them crisp and vibrant. Remove them from the pan and set aside to preserve their color and texture.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Stir-fry your marinated beef for 2 to 3 minutes until browned on all sides. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until their aromas rise and fill your kitchen—it’s an intoxicating moment that signals deliciousness ahead.

Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish

Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the beef. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step ensures every piece is coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that perfectly ties all elements together.

How to Serve Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra freshness and texture, sprinkle some chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. These simple garnishes add a burst of color and subtle nutty flavor that brighten each bite, giving your dish a restaurant-quality look and taste.

Side Dishes

This pepper steak shines when served over steamed white or jasmine rice, soaking up all that wonderful sauce. Alternatively, try it alongside noodles for a heartier meal. Steamed broccoli or snap peas also make great sides if you want extra veggies that complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Serve your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld twist. Or plate it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still delivers all the flavor you crave. Either way, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this dish again without any fuss.

Freezing

If you want to keep this tasty meal on hand for longer, it freezes well. Portion out the cooked pepper steak into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the beef tender and the vegetables crisp. You can add a splash of water or a drizzle of soy sauce if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking, you can use other cuts like skirt steak or even ribeye thinly sliced. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid toughness.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe is mildly peppery thanks to the black pepper but not spicy-hot. You can easily add chili flakes or fresh chilies if you want a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free. This keeps the delicious flavors while accommodating dietary needs.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn for extra color and texture. Just stir-fry them along with the bell peppers and onions for the best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about mastering an Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe that’s both approachable and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this dish delivers comforting vibes with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to weeknight favorite that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

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3.8 from 44 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak recipe features tender strips of marinated flank steak stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers and onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this classic stir-fry dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, served best over steamed rice or noodles.

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Ingredients

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Beef Marinade

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Sauce & Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to evenly coat the beef. This step helps tenderize the meat and prepares it for a perfect stir-fry texture.
2. Let it Marinate: Allow the beef to rest and marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and other ingredients. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Stir-fry them for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly softened but still crisp, then remove them from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
4. Cook the Beef: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot skillet. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and nearly cooked through.
5. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Continue cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring these aromatics release their flavors into the beef.
6. Combine & Sauce: Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the pan with the beef. Pour in 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1/4 cup of water, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly.
7. Finish Stir-frying: Cook the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly so the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the pepper steak hot over freshly steamed rice or your choice of noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.
• Slicing the beef thinly against the grain helps keep the meat tender.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or snap peas for added texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during the stir-fry.
• Make sure the skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients to ensure proper searing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Chinese