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### How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Making Chinese pepper steak with onions is quick and easy, thanks to the fast cooking time of stir-fry dishes. Here’s how you can make this juicy and flavorful dish at home:
#### 1. **Prepare the Beef**
Start by slicing your **flank steak** (or sirloin) into thin strips. It’s important to cut against the grain to ensure the beef remains tender. If you have time, you can marinate the beef in a little soy sauce, cornstarch, and water for about 15 minutes to help tenderize it further. However, this step is optional and can be skipped if you’re short on time.
#### 2. **Make the Sauce**
In a small bowl, whisk together **soy sauce**, **oyster sauce**, **hoisin sauce**, **rice vinegar**, and **beef broth**. In a separate small bowl, mix the **cornstarch** with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce mixture to help thicken the sauce as it cooks. Set the sauce aside.
#### 3. **Stir-Fry the Beef**
Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add **1 tablespoon of vegetable oil**. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook the beef in batches. Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
#### 4. **Cook the Vegetables**
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the **onions**, **bell peppers**, **garlic**, and **ginger** (if using). Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp, retaining some of their vibrant color and crunch.
#### 5. **Combine Beef and Sauce**
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and veggies. Stir everything together to coat evenly. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two to thicken and coat the beef and vegetables in that delicious, savory glaze.
#### 6. **Finish and Serve**
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary—adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or a dash of soy sauce if needed. Remove from heat and drizzle with a little **sesame oil** for added fragrance. Garnish with freshly chopped **green onions** or **sesame seeds** if desired.
Serve your **Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** hot, over a bed of steamed rice or alongside some stir-fried noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the juicy, tender beef, the crunch of the peppers, and the savory sauce that ties everything together!
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### Tips for Perfect Chinese Pepper Steak
– **Beef Selection**: While flank steak is commonly used, other cuts like **sirloin** or **round steak** can also work well. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly for maximum tenderness.
– **Vegetable Variations**: If you like your stir-fry with more variety, feel free to add **snow peas**, **mushrooms**, or even **baby corn** to the mix. Just make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp and vibrant.
– **Adjust the Heat**: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more **crushed red pepper flakes**, or even toss in a sliced **jalapeño** or **Thai chili** pepper. For a milder version, you can omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
– **Make It Gluten-Free**: To make this dish gluten-free, swap the soy sauce for **tamari** (a gluten-free soy sauce) and ensure that the hoisin sauce is also gluten-free.
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### Why You’ll Love Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, with the tender beef providing a satisfying bite and the vegetables adding both color and crunch. The sauce is rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of thick, making it perfect for soaking into the rice or noodles. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile and easy to customize based on your personal preferences.
Not only is this dish quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner with friends, this flavorful stir-fry will surely impress. It’s a fantastic way to bring the delicious flavors of Chinese cuisine into your own kitchen.
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### Final Thoughts
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a classic, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef, crisp vegetables, and rich sauce, it’s a stir-fry that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Try making this dish at home and enjoy the savory goodness that comes from combining fresh ingredients and delicious seasonings. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese food or just looking for a tasty new recipe to try, this Chinese pepper steak is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
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