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Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Make this quick and flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak in just 30 minutes! Tender beef, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce make this stir-fry a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Beef:

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water to thicken

Instructions
 

Marinate the Beef:

  • In a bowl, toss the steak slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Make the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar. Set aside.

Cook the Beef:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Veggies:

  • In the same pan, add bell peppers, onion, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Combine & Simmer:

  • Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir well. Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
  • Customizations: Add broccoli, mushrooms, or swap beef for chicken or tofu.