Pepper Steak with Onions
Tender beef slices and crisp bell peppers tossed in a savory black pepper and soy sauce. A classic Chinese-American stir-fry that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner over fluffy rice.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Velvet the Beef
- b.In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch.
- c.Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. This process, known as velveting, ensures the beef stays tender and moist.
- d.Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, 3 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, 2 tsp cornstarch, and coarse black pepper.
- c.Mix until the cornstarch and sugar are fully dissolved. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sear the Beef
- b.Heat 1.5 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
- c.Carefully add half of the marinated beef in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- d.Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until well-browned but not cooked through. The high heat creates a delicious crust.
- e.Remove the seared beef with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate. Repeat with the remaining beef, adding more oil if needed.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir-Fry Vegetables
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1.5 tbsp of oil to the same skillet.
- c.Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. They should still have a slight bite.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet with the vegetables.
- c.Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk to recombine the cornstarch, then pour it over the ingredients in the skillet.
- d.Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes as the sauce comes to a boil and thickens to a glossy consistency, coating everything evenly.
- e.Remove the skillet from the heat.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Stir in the toasted sesame oil off the heat to preserve its nutty aroma.
- c.Garnish with freshly sliced scallions.
- d.Serve immediately over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier slicing, place the beef in the freezer for 20-30 minutes. This firms it up, allowing for paper-thin cuts.
- 2Always slice beef against the grain. Look for the parallel lines of muscle fiber and cut perpendicular to them for maximum tenderness.
- 3High heat is the secret to a great stir-fry. Ensure your wok or skillet is screaming hot before adding ingredients to get a proper sear.
- 4Prepare all your ingredients (mise en place) before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a rapid process, and you won't have time to chop once you begin.
- 5For extra color and flavor, use a mix of red and green bell peppers.
- 6Don't overcook the bell peppers; they should remain slightly crisp to provide a textural contrast to the tender beef.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This recipe works wonderfully with chicken breast or thighs, pork tenderloin, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or snow peas. Add heartier vegetables like broccoli first, as they take longer to cook.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
For a spicy kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry sauce.
Add a Nutty CrunchAdd a Nutty Crunch
Toast some cashew nuts or peanuts and sprinkle them over the finished dish for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Boosts Iron Levels
This dish provides a significant amount of heme iron from the beef, which is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Rich in B Vitamins
Beef is a natural source of essential B vitamins, particularly B12 and B6. These vitamins are vital for energy metabolism, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Contains Antioxidants
Bell peppers, onions, garlic, and ginger are packed with antioxidants like quercetin and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Pepper Steak with Onions contains approximately 455 calories, not including rice. The final count can vary based on the specific cut of beef and amount of oil used.