Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions – Quick & Easy Recipe at Home
Looking for a quick, flavorful dish that’s better than takeout? This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions delivers tender slices of beef stir-fried with sweet onions and colorful bell peppers, all coated in a savory homemade sauce. It’s a fast and delicious way to bring restaurant-style Chinese food to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.
This classic dish from Chinese-American cuisine ¹ is known for its bold flavor and satisfying texture. It’s ideal for weeknight meals or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why Try This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
This stir-fry recipe is not only easy but also adaptable. Whether you’re looking to control ingredients, cut costs, or just skip takeout, this version is ideal. Unlike many fast-food versions, this version uses lean beef, fresh vegetables, and less oil, resulting in a healthier dish.
Additionally, this dish introduces you to basic stir-frying techniques ² that can be used for many other Asian recipes.
Ingredients for Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
This list includes everything you need to make this flavorful dish:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced across the grain (Flank steak info)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (What is soy sauce?)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (More on hoisin)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- ½ cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Thinly slice the beef against the grain. Combine it in a bowl with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside for 10–15 minutes. This step tenderizes the meat and adds depth to the flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the beef marinates, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch in a bowl. This mixture will form a rich, glossy sauce for your stir-fry.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry them for 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly but retain their color and texture. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. Remove everything from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 1 minute to build flavor, then stir and cook for another 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the vegetables to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and stir everything to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and vegetables.
What to Serve with Chinese Pepper Steak
This dish is very versatile. It pairs well with:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Brown rice or quinoa for a healthy option
- Rice noodles or lo mein
- Steamed vegetables like bok choy or broccoli
The savory sauce makes it perfect for spooning over rice or soaking into noodles.
Tips for the Best Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Cut thin slices of beef for quick, even cooking. A slightly frozen steak is easier to slice.
- Do not overcook the vegetables. A slight crunch adds contrast to the tender meat.
- Use high heat to achieve that classic stir-fry flavor without overcooking.
- Double the sauce if you like your stir-fry extra saucy.
Custom Variations You Can Try
Want to make it your own? Here are some tasty variations:
- Add heat: Include chili flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha.
- Add sweetness: Toss in pineapple chunks or a dash of honey.
- Use different veggies: Try mushrooms, zucchini, snap peas, or carrots.
- Make it low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute beef with tofu or seitan.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked beef and vegetables, but fresh veggies will yield better texture upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes. Skirt steak, ribeye, or top sirloin all work well in place of flank steak.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Also, make sure your hoisin and oyster sauces are certified gluten-free.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Prepare the sauce and slice the meat and vegetables in advance. Stir-fry everything fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts on Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe delivers everything you want in a quick homemade stir-fry: rich flavor, tender meat, and fresh veggies. The sauce is bold yet balanced, and the dish is ready in less time than it takes to order out. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this simple stir-fry is always a hit.
For more recipes like this, visit Vicky’s Recipes or explore more about the Chinese cuisine tradition on Wikipedia.
