➡️ Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

A fast, flavorful stir-fry packed with tender beef, crisp peppers, and a rich savory sauce—perfect for weeknights when you want restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.

👉 Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak – thinly sliced for tenderness and quick cooking.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – neutral oil with a high smoke point for stir-frying.
• 1 green bell pepper – sliced for fresh crunch and color contrast.
• 1 red bell pepper – adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 onion – provides natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 garlic cloves – minced for aromatic savory notes.
• 1 tsp fresh ginger – brightens and lifts the overall flavor.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – the salty umami backbone of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce – adds savory richness and body.
• 1 tbsp hoisin (optional) – for a touch of sweet complexity.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) – creates a silky, glossy sauce.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – the signature peppery kick that defines this dish.
• Cooked rice or noodles – for serving and soaking up the sauce.

👉 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Step 1: Prep the Beef
   Pat the beef dry, then slice thinly against the grain (this keeps the meat tender). Season lightly with black pepper.
2. Step 2: Sear the Beef
   Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Stir-fry the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside to avoid overcooking.
3. Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
   Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry the sliced onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Combine Everything
   Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin (if using). Toss quickly to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
5. Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
   Stir the cornstarch slurry again, then pour it into the pan while stirring. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with extra black pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Serve
   Serve the hot pepper steak immediately over steamed rice or toss with cooked noodles. Garnish with sliced scallions or a squeeze of lime if desired.

👉 Why This Recipe Is Loved

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy evenings.
• Bursting with bold, savory flavor from soy and oyster sauces.
• Balanced texture: tender beef + crisp vegetables.
• Better than takeout—fresher ingredients and control over seasoning.

Pro tip: Chill the beef for 10–15 minutes before slicing to make cleaner thin cuts. Cook in batches to avoid steaming the meat—high heat and a hot pan are the secrets to great stir-fry texture.

Serving suggestions: Pair with jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or a side of steamed broccoli. Top with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or a few chili flakes for heat.