Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a fantastic option. This stir-fry combines tender beef with colorful bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Marinade:
– 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For the Stir-Fry:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your homemade Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and beef broth until smooth. Set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. Remove the vegetables from the wok and set aside.
Cook the Beef
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer. Let it sear for about 1 minute without stirring to develop a good sear. Stir-fry the beef for another 2-3 minutes until it’s nearly cooked through.
Combine and Finish
Return the cooked vegetables to the wok with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Add the freshly ground black pepper and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Marinade Time
The beef benefits from marinating longer if time permits, up to 1 hour for enhanced flavor.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to include other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for additional color and nutrition.
Adjusting Spice Level
Adjust the amount of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
Storage
Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the beef is crucial for enhancing flavor and tenderness. A mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil allows the meat to absorb flavors and become more tender.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying involves cooking ingredients quickly over high heat while continuously stirring. This technique helps to retain the crispness of the vegetables and ensures the meat cooks evenly.
Flavor Development
To achieve rich flavors, allow the beef to sear without moving it for the first minute. This creates a caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Combining Ingredients
When combining cooked ingredients with sauces, it’s essential to stir thoroughly to ensure even coating. This technique ensures that every bite is flavorful and delicious.
Thickening the Sauce
Using cornstarch in the sauce mixture helps thicken it when heated, allowing it to cling to the beef and vegetables, creating a glossy finish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye, but flank steak is preferred for its tenderness when sliced thinly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas according to your preference.
How do I make this dish spicy?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the stir-fry to increase the heat level.
What can I serve with pepper steak?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles, complementing the rich flavors of the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of the marinated beef and the stir-fried vegetables, paired with steamed rice or noodles, makes for a satisfying and delightful meal that can please any palate.
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