Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Sizzling Chinese pepper steak with onions is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender flank steak with colorful bell peppers and aromatic seasonings. This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying meal that can be served over rice for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Directions

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat.
2. Add the sliced steak and cook until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Return the steak to the skillet.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Pour the sauce over the steak and vegetables.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the steak and vegetables.
8. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Serve over cooked rice.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 25 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking.

Variations

• Vegetable Medley: Add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chilies.
• Different Proteins: Substitute flank steak with chicken, beef sirloin, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the dish moist.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
   Yes, sirloin or ribeye can be good substitutes for flank steak.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your hoisin and oyster sauces are also gluten-free.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
   This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
4. Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?
   Yes, you can slice the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
5. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, replace the steak with tofu or seitan and adjust the sauces accordingly.
6. How do I know when the steak is done?
   The steak should be browned on the outside and have a slightly pink interior, which is typical for flank steak.
7. Can I freeze the cooked dish?
   Yes, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
8. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
   You can omit it or substitute with more hoisin sauce or soy sauce.
9. How spicy is this dish?
   It is mild to medium, depending on the amount of crushed red pepper flakes used.
10. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
    While not traditional, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker by cooking the steak and vegetables on low for 4-6 hours, adding the sauces toward the end.

Conclusion

Sizzling Chinese pepper steak with onions is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to please. With its tender beef and colorful vegetables coated in a delicious sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out for your next dinner and enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine right at home!

Print