Introduction
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef, sautéed onions, and colorful bell peppers in a savory sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish will surely satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you will fall in love with this Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion recipe. Firstly, it requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Secondly, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you don’t have much time to cook. Lastly, the combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and flavorful bell peppers creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
To make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves of 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
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced flank steak to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly softened.
6. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients.
7. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.
10. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure that your Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion turns out perfectly:
– For tender and juicy steak, make sure to slice it thinly against the grain.
– To save time, you can slice the onions and bell peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
– If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
– Make sure not to overcook the bell peppers. They should be slightly softened but still have a nice crunch.
– If you want to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute tamari sauce for the soy sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
– Instead of flank steak, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken breast.
– If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can add some sliced chili peppers to the dish.
– For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the steak with tofu or tempeh.
– If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce or use low-sodium alternatives.
– Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as mushrooms, snow peas, or broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion is delicious on its own but can be served with various accompaniments to create a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions:
– Serve the dish over steamed white or brown rice for a classic combination.
– If you’re in the mood for something lighter, you can serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
– Add a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or snap peas, to add more color and nutrients to your plate.
– For a complete Chinese-inspired meal, serve the Pepper Steak with Onion alongside some egg rolls or potstickers.
– Pair the dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion immediately after cooking, you can make the sauce and slice the vegetables in advance to save time.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! You can use chicken, pork, or even shrimp instead of beef in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A: Yes, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onion is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. With its tender slices of beef, caramelized onions, and vibrant bell peppers, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen!
