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### Ingredients for Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Making **Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** requires only a handful of ingredients, many of which are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
– **Beef**: Use a tender cut like **flank steak**, **sirloin**, or **ribeye**. Slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
– **Bell Peppers**: Typically, red and green bell peppers are used, but feel free to use any color you prefer. They add sweetness and crunch to the dish.
– **Onions**: Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe, as they have the right balance of sweetness and bite.
– **Garlic**: Fresh garlic brings a nice aromatic flavor to the stir-fry and complements the beef and vegetables.
– **Soy Sauce**: This savory sauce is a key ingredient in the dish and helps create that umami flavor that is central to Chinese cooking.
– **Oyster Sauce**: Adds depth and a slightly sweet, savory richness to the stir-fry.
– **Cornstarch**: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy texture.
– **Sesame Oil**: Adds a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
– **Sugar**: A small amount of sugar helps balance the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
– **Black Pepper**: Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild kick to the dish, and you can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it.
### How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Making **Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** is simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delicious dish at home:
#### 1. **Prep the Ingredients**:
Start by **slicing the beef** thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat will be tender and easy to chew. Slice the **bell peppers** into thin strips and **cut the onion** into wedges. Mince the **garlic** and set it aside.
#### 2. **Marinate the Beef**:
In a small bowl, combine **soy sauce**, a pinch of **sugar**, and **black pepper**. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss to coat. Allow the beef to marinate for about **10-15 minutes** while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
#### 3. **Make the Sauce**:
In another bowl, whisk together **soy sauce**, **oyster sauce**, **cornstarch**, and a little water. This mixture will create the thick, flavorful sauce that coats the beef and vegetables.
#### 4. **Stir-Fry the Vegetables**:
Heat **sesame oil** in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced **onions** and **bell peppers**. Stir-fry for about **2-3 minutes**, just until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
#### 5. **Cook the Beef**:
In the same skillet or wok, add a little more sesame oil if needed, then add the **marinated beef**. Stir-fry the beef for about **3-4 minutes** until it is cooked through and slightly browned.
#### 6. **Combine Everything**:
Once the beef is cooked, add the **garlic** and stir for about **30 seconds** until fragrant. Then, return the **vegetables** to the pan along with the **sauce mixture**. Stir everything together to coat the beef and vegetables in the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another **1-2 minutes** until it thickens to your desired consistency.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Once the sauce has thickened, your **Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** is ready to serve! Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of **steamed rice** or **noodles** and enjoy this flavorful, hearty dish.
### Tips for Perfecting Your Chinese Pepper Steak
– **Beef Cut**: The key to tender beef in stir-fries is to slice it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers and results in a much more tender bite.
– **Veggie Texture**: To avoid overcooking the bell peppers and onions, be sure to stir-fry them just until they’re tender-crisp. This way, they’ll retain their natural crunch and vibrant color.
– **Sauce Adjustments**: You can adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a little extra sugar. If you prefer a saltier flavor, add a splash more soy sauce.
– **Add Heat**: If you like a little spice in your stir-fry, add some **sliced fresh chili peppers** or a spoonful of **chili garlic sauce** for an extra kick.
### Why This Dish is So Special
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a stir-fry that combines tender beef with crunchy vegetables and a savory sauce. **Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** is a dish that delivers on both flavor and texture, and it’s so versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty weeknight meal or even serve it at a dinner party. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of technique, you can recreate the bold, satisfying flavors of Chinese-American cuisine right at home.
This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a favorite among many. It’s easy to customize, so you can adjust the heat, sweetness, and texture to suit your preferences. Best of all, it’s quick to make, making it a fantastic choice when you need a delicious meal on the table in no time.
### Final Thoughts
**Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions** is a delicious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the essence of Chinese stir-fry to your kitchen. With tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for serving over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a special dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!
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