Chinese pepper steak with onions is a beloved dish that melds tender, savory beef with the vibrant crunch of bell peppers and onions. This easy-to-make meal acts as the perfect canvas for bold flavors and colors, making it a favorite in both home kitchens and restaurants. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe delivers delicious results that are sure to impress family and guests alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the standout reasons to try Chinese pepper steak is its balance of taste and texture. It’s a quick dish, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of thinly sliced steak with sautéed bell peppers and onions lends a wonderful burst of flavor that appeals to adults and kids alike. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple ingredients you might already have on hand. The quick cooking time and easy cleanup make it a winner for any home cook looking for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine.
"This pepper steak was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors paired wonderfully, and it was so quick to make. We’ll definitely be adding it to our dinner rotation." — Emily, a satisfied home cook.
The cooking process explained
Making Chinese pepper steak with onions is straightforward and intuitive. You’ll begin by prepping your ingredients, ensuring everything is sliced and ready to go. After briefly cooking the steak, you’ll sauté the veggies until they’re tender but still crisp. Finally, the steak returns to the pan with soy sauce and freshly cracked black pepper, creating a deliciously savory sauce that ties everything together.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the process:
- Prepare all your ingredients.
- Cook the steak.
- Sauté the veggies.
- Combine everything in one pan and stir-fry.
What you’ll need
To whip up this flavorful Chinese pepper steak, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/4 lbs flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, thick slices
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Soy sauce
- Black pepper
- Oil for cooking (canola or vegetable oil works best)
For substitution ideas, you can replace the flank or sirloin steak with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. The bell peppers can also be swapped out for any color or type, depending on your preference.
