
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1-2 bell peppers (green or red), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional for aroma)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, mix sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a hot skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in a single layer. Sear without moving for 1 minute, then stir-fry until just browned (about 2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Stir-fry onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Bring It Together:
- Return the beef to the skillet.
- Add oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, remaining black pepper, and water or broth.
- Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish & Serve:
- Drizzle sesame oil (if using) and give it a final toss.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook beef in batches if needed to keep it sizzling and not steaming.