Savor the Bold Flavors of Chinese Pepper Steak

Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick, flavorful stir-fry made with tender beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a savory garlic-soy sauce. This dish is better than takeout and comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s bold, satisfying, and absolutely delicious served over steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients for Chinese Pepper Steak

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

2 tablespoons soy sauce (for marinade)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 cup beef broth or water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, toss sliced beef with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), cornstarch, beef broth, black pepper, and sugar. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Sauté garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and onion for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and veggies evenly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately over steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak

Slice beef thinly and against the grain for tenderness
Use a very hot pan to sear the beef quickly
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed

Keep veggies crisp by stir-frying briefly
Adjust spice level with crushed red pepper or chili garlic sauce

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy—ready in 30 minutes

Loaded with bold Chinese flavors
High protein, low-carb option
Great for meal prep and leftovers

Customizable with other veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas

Serving Suggestions

Classic: Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice
Low-carb: Pair with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables

Comfort: Toss with lo mein or ramen noodles
Sides: Add egg rolls, dumplings, or wonton soup

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Final Thoughts

Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick, satisfying dinner loaded with flavor and texture. With tender beef, crisp peppers, and a savory garlic-soy sauce, it delivers everything you love about Chinese takeout—made fresh in your own kitchen. It’s easy, customizable, and sure to become a go-to favorite.

Chinese Pepper Steak: A Takeout Classic You Can Make at Home

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Ingredients

– 1 pound beef top sirloin steak
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons white sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
– 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch squares
– 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
– 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. **Slice the Beef:** Begin by slicing the beef into 1/2-inch thick strips across the grain. This ensures that the beef remains tender and easy to savor.
2. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, white sugar, cornstarch, and ground ginger. Keep whisking until the sugar has completely dissolved, and the mixture is velvety smooth.
3. **Marinate the Beef:** Immerse the sliced beef in the marinade, ensuring that every piece is generously coated. This step is vital to infuse the beef with the sumptuous flavors of the sauce.
4. **Sear the Beef:** Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef strips in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan. Stir and cook until the beef is beautifully browned, which should take approximately 3 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a bowl and set it aside.
5. **Add Vegetables:** Return the cooked beef strips to the hot wok and introduce the sliced red onion. Toss them together until the onion begins to soften, which should take around 2 minutes.
6. **Incorporate the Bell Pepper:** Stir in the green bell pepper and continue to cook and stir the medley until the peppers turn vibrant green and start to tenderize. This typically takes about 2 minutes more.
7. **Blend in the Tomatoes:** Finally, add the tomato wedges to the wok. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously.
8. **Serve and Relish:** Your Delectable Beef Stir-Fry is now ready to grace your taste buds. Enjoy it as is or pair it with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.