Chinese pepper steak with onions

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl it to coat the pan. When the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the beef is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute, then add the bell peppers. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crispness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan along with any juices. Stir the prepared sauce and pour it over the beef and vegetables. Toss everything together and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, until it thickens and evenly coats the beef and veggies.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste and adjust the seasoning — you can add a splash more soy sauce for saltiness or a pinch of sugar for balance. Remove from heat and drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for aroma.

🍚 Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chinese Pepper Steak hot over:

• Steamed jasmine or white rice
• Fried rice for a heartier meal
• Noodles for a stir-fry twist

Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair.

💡 Tips for the Perfect Pepper Steak

• Slice the beef thinly: Freezing the meat for 20 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut thin, even strips.
• High heat is key: Stir-frying over high heat gives that authentic, slightly smoky “wok hei” flavor.
• Don’t overcook the veggies: Keeping the peppers slightly crisp gives the dish its signature texture.
• Adjust the sauce: If you like more sauce, double the sauce ingredients; if you prefer it thicker, add a bit more cornstarch slurry.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Dish

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s easily customizable — you can add mushrooms, snow peas, or even broccoli to make it your own.

✨ Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions at home. With its tender beef, vibrant peppers, and glossy, flavorful sauce, this dish captures the essence of comfort and flavor in every bite. Once you make it yourself, you might never need takeout again!

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