Fiery Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a beloved stir-fry that brings together tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a bold, savory sauce. Known for its straightforward preparation and deeply satisfying flavor, this dish is a staple in both restaurant kitchens and home cooking. The hiss of a hot wok, the punch of freshly cracked black pepper, and the contrast of soft beef with crunchy vegetables make it a timeless favorite.

This overview explores the dish’s background, core ingredients, cooking methods, helpful tips, and serving ideas—ideal whether you’re just starting out with Chinese-inspired dishes or refining your stir-fry technique.

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🥢 Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

🥣 Essential Ingredients

Ingredient	Role	Notes
Beef	Main protein	Flank, sirloin, or skirt steak; slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness
Onions	Sweetness & aroma	Yellow or white onions are traditional; red onions add mild sweetness
Bell peppers	Color & crunch	Green peppers add a slight bitterness; red or yellow bring sweetness and brightness
Black pepper	Signature flavor	Freshly ground delivers the best aroma and bite
Sauce elements	Savory coating	Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch; optional oyster sauce or broth adds richness

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🔪 Preparation Tips

• Slice the beef properly: Cut thinly against the grain to keep it tender. Slightly chilling the meat makes slicing easier.
• Quick marinade: Toss beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil for 15–30 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.
• Prep vegetables ahead: Slice onions and peppers evenly so they cook at the same rate. Keep them separate until cooking.

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🍳 Cooking Process

Heat the Pan
Use a wok or large skillet and preheat until very hot before adding oil. High heat ensures a quick sear and prevents steaming.

Sear the Beef
Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook briefly, stirring occasionally, until browned but still slightly undercooked. Remove and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add onions and peppers to the pan. Cook until fragrant and just tender, keeping a bit of crunch.

Combine and Sauce
Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, and toss quickly. The sauce should thicken and coat everything evenly. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

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⚖️ Flavor & Texture Balance

• Beef should be tender, vegetables crisp, and the sauce savory with a subtle sweetness.
• If the sauce tastes too intense, add a splash of water or broth.
• For extra depth, increase soy sauce or add oyster sauce to taste.

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🍚 Serving Ideas

• Serve over steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Variations include brown rice, fried rice, or noodles.
• Complete the meal with steamed vegetables or a light soup.

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🌶️ Popular Variations

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies.
• Lighter version: Use lean beef, reduce oil, and add extra vegetables; serve with whole grains.
• Protein swaps: Chicken, tofu, or mushrooms work well with the same sauce.

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💡 Tips for Best Results

• Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.
• Have all ingredients ready before you start; stir-frying moves quickly.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end—small changes can make a big impact.