There’s something deeply comforting about a sizzling stir-fry that fills the kitchen with the warm aromas of garlic, ginger, and soy. This Chinese pepper steak with onions is a dish I remember fondly—quick, hearty, and packed with rich, savory notes that instantly transport me to bustling Chinese diners.
This recipe is a modern, weeknight-friendly version of a classic. It’s ideal for busy evenings yet elegant enough to serve when guests drop by. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, you’ll have a satisfying, homemade meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients
1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sugar
2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 bell peppers (one red, one green), thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch fresh ginger, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sugar.
Mix thoroughly, ensuring each strip is coated.
Let it rest for 15–20 minutes to soak in the flavors.
2. Prep the Veggies
Slice onions and bell peppers into thin, even strips.
Mince garlic and ginger finely—these are key to building a fragrant stir-fry base.
3. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/2 cup water until fully dissolved. Set aside.
4. Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
5. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
Toss in the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger.
Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
6. Bring It All Together
Return the beef to the pan.
Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir well.
Let everything cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.
7. Final Seasoning
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
🥢 Tips & Customizations
Tender Beef Tip: Slice your beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
Spice It Up: Add fresh chilies or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
Healthier Option: Use a non-stick pan and reduce the oil, or substitute with avocado oil.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster and hoisin sauces are certified gluten-free.
Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms, snow peas, or carrots for a more colorful dish.
🥡 Serving Suggestion
Pair this pepper steak with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or toss it over noodles. Don’t forget a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top for a restaurant-style finish!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Chinese pepper steak with onions is the perfect balance of tender beef, crisp veggies, and a savory-sweet sauce. It’s incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned home cook, this dish deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
