Name: Chinese Onion Pepper Steak Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/4 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is the kind of recipe that turns a regular weeknight into something special, thanks to its quick-cooking nature and vibrant flavors. Imagine juicy, tender slices of steak soaking up a glossy, umami-packed sauce, mingling beautifully with sweet bell peppers and onions. Each bite hits every note: savory, a touch of sweet, that slight hint of ginger warmth. It’s a dish that makes you feel like you’ve brought your favorite takeout spot right into your own kitchen—without need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps. If you’ve been craving a better-than-restaurant take on Chinese Onion Pepper Steak, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Chinese Onion Pepper Steak Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is the secret here—just a handful of classic Chinese flavors come together for something that really sings. Every ingredient is here for a reason, contributing its own special something, whether it’s deepening the sauce, adding crunch, or brightening up the whole dish with color.

Flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain for the most tender, juicy bites of beef.
Soy sauce: The foundation of savory, salty flavor in the sauce and marinade.
Oyster sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet depth to the whole dish.
Hoisin sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity, balancing the savory notes.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the steak that irresistible silky finish.
Sugar: Just a pinch highlights and balances out the more robust flavors.
Sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty fragrance that rounds out the sauce.
Beef broth: Brings everything together with richness and extra savoriness.
Vegetable oil: Ensures everything stir-fries quickly and evenly at a high temperature.
Onion: Sliced onions become sweet and tender, almost melting into the sauce.
Red bell pepper: Provides sweetness and a burst of cheerful color.
Green bell pepper: A touch more earthiness and crunch to balance everything out.
Garlic: Gives a delicious aromatic kick that infuses the entire dish.
Fresh ginger: Lends a gentle heat and zingy freshness to each bite.
Green onions: Used for garnish, they give a fresh, oniony pop right at the end.
Sesame seeds (optional): For an extra layer of crunch and subtle nuttiness—plus that perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Chinese Onion Pepper Steak

Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sugar, sesame oil, and beef broth. Whisk everything until smooth and glossy—the cornstarch should be fully dissolved, making the sauce almost satin-like. This step is key to getting that signature silky, clingy texture you want in Chinese Onion Pepper Steak.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Toss the thinly sliced flank steak with about one tablespoon of the prepared sauce. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Giving the beef a short marinade with that flavor-packed sauce not only seasons it deeply but also helps keep it extra tender once you start stir-frying.

Step 3: Brown the Steak

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated steak in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pan. Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes—just until it’s beginning to brown but not completely cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside for now; it’ll finish cooking later with all the vegetables.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to your pan. Toss in the sliced onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until they’re starting to get slightly tender but still have a bit of crispness—their color should be vivid, and you’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger

Push the veggies to the sides of the pan and add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot center. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds—this brings out their flavors without burning. Everything should smell incredibly fragrant right now.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the browned steak to the pan. Pour in the rest of the prepared sauce, then stir-fry everything together for 2–3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat each piece beautifully while the beef finishes cooking. You’ll notice the mixture turn glossy and irresistible—that’s when you know your Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is ready to shine.

How to Serve Chinese Onion Pepper Steak

Garnishes

Top your sizzling skillet of Chinese Onion Pepper Steak with freshly sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness. Sprinkle on toasted sesame seeds if you like—it adds a subtle crunch and a hint of nuttiness. If you want to dial up the heat or tang, a quick scatter of chili flakes or a dash of rice vinegar works wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish is made for serving over a fluffy bed of steamed jasmine or long-grain white rice, soaking up every last drop of savory sauce. Steamed broccoli, sautéed bok choy, or even simple garlic noodles make fantastic company. The crisp veggies and gentle flavors balance out the richness of the steak beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Chinese Onion Pepper Steak in lettuce cups or over a mound of fried rice for a takeout-style treat at home. It also works surprisingly well spooned atop stir-fried noodles. If you’re feeding a crowd, serve it platter-style with chopsticks or small tongs to let everyone help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chinese Onion Pepper Steak keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making it almost better the next day. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before storing, so nothing gets soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish if you want to get ahead—just let it cool, divide into portions, and seal in freezer-friendly containers. It will keep for about two months. When you’re ready for a speedy dinner, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chinese Onion Pepper Steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently so everything heats evenly. You can also microwave it—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, to avoid overcooking the beef.

FAQs

Can I use another cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak gives you that classic, tender result, you can substitute with skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture, no matter which cut you choose.

Is this recipe spicy?

Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is designed to be flavorful but mild, making it family-friendly. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, sliced fresh chilies, or a splash of your favorite chili oil to the sauce or as a garnish.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check that your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

For melt-in-your-mouth bites, always slice against the grain—that means cutting perpendicular to the lines of muscle running through the meat. This breaks up tough fibers and keeps each piece super tender. It’s even easier if the beef is slightly chilled before slicing.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is flexible—try adding mushrooms, snap peas, or even thinly sliced carrots along with the peppers. Just keep cooking times in mind so everything stays crisp-tender.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels comforting and exciting at the same time, give this Chinese Onion Pepper Steak a try—it’s the ultimate way to treat yourself and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table. Go on, gather your ingredients and get ready for homemade takeout magic!

Chinese Onion Pepper Steak Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Chinese Onion Pepper Steak recipe is a savory and flavorful stir-fry dish that combines tender flank steak with colorful bell peppers and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

1 1/2 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 cup beef broth

For the Stir-Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sugar, sesame oil, and beef broth.
Marinate the Steak: Toss the sliced steak with 1 tablespoon of the sauce and marinate for 10 minutes.
Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet, sear the beef for 2–3 minutes, then set aside.
Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add remaining oil, stir-fry onion, bell peppers for 3–4 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds.
Combine and Cook: Return beef, pour in remaining sauce, stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until cooked through.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve over rice.