Chinese Pepper Steak: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Classic in Just 30 Minutes
Okay, I have to be honest—there’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up Chinese Pepper Steak that instantly takes me back to my college days. Picture this: a tiny, somewhat questionable dorm room kitchen filling up with the rich aroma of sizzling beef and bell peppers, while I desperately tried to prove that instant ramen wasn’t the only thing I could cook. This dish strikes the perfect balance—quick, colorful, and packed with bold, savory flavor. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy but actually comes together faster than you can say, “Is the rice done yet?” Let me show you how to nail that tender, juicy steak with crisp veggies and a sauce that sticks to every bite—no fuss, all yum.
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Sauce / Garnish:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (slurry)
- 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground (plus extra to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
How I Make It
Step 1:
First, you want to thinly slice your flank steak against the grain—this keeps it super tender after cooking. Mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl, then set that aside. It’s your flavor powerhouse!
Step 2:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering hot, add the steak in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until just browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
Step 3:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onions, green and red bell peppers, plus the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften but still have that satisfying crunch.
Step 4:
Return the steak to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir well to combine. Let it cook together for a minute or two.
Step 5:
Finally, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce coats the steak and veggies beautifully—this usually takes about 1 minute. Taste, and adjust the pepper or soy sauce if needed.
Step 6:
Turn off the heat, sprinkle some sliced green onions if you like, and get ready to plate your gorgeous, glossy stir-fry. It’s best enjoyed hot, preferably with steamed rice!
Variations & Tips
- Use sirloin or ribeye if you want a richer cut, but remember to slice very thin.
- Swap bell peppers for poblano or Anaheim for a smoky twist.
- Add a dash of chili flakes or fresh sliced chili if you like a little heat.
- If you can’t find hoisin sauce, a bit more oyster sauce plus a teaspoon of honey works well.
- Marinate the steak 15 minutes ahead with a splash of soy sauce and black pepper for extra flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak to get a good caramelized crust.
How I Like to Serve It
My favorite way to enjoy Chinese Pepper Steak is spooned over fluffy steamed jasmine rice or alongside some simple fried rice. This dish also pairs perfectly with a light cucumber salad or steamed bok choy to keep things fresh and balanced. On cozy weeknights, I sometimes add extra sauce and drizzle it over some warm noodles for a comforting carb fix!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave—add a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy.
- If you want to prep ahead, slice the steak and veggies the night before; just keep them separate to avoid sogginess.
Closing: This Chinese Pepper Steak always hits the spot because it’s quick, flavorful, and makes weeknight dinners feel a little bit special without any fuss!