Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a beloved dish that brings together the savory, umami-rich flavors of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce, with the crisp, vibrant textures of bell peppers and onions. This dish is a popular choice for anyone who enjoys the bold, dynamic flavors of Chinese cuisine. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this sizzling dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe and discover how you can bring the taste of Chinese cuisine to your dining table.
**Recipe: A Brief Description of the Recipe**
The Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delightful stir-fry that combines tender slices of marinated flank steak with colorful bell peppers and onions. The marinade, featuring soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce, infuses the beef with a deep, savory flavor, while a hint of ginger and garlic adds aromatic depth. This dish is traditionally served hot over a bed of steamed rice, making it a satisfying and complete meal that bursts with fresh and bold flavors.
**Ingredients**
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients to ensure you have everything you need for a seamless cooking experience:
– 1½ lbs flank steak, thinly sliced: Flank steak is a flavorful cut of beef that becomes tender when sliced thin and cooked quickly.
– 2 tbsp soy sauce: This provides the essential salty, umami base for the marinade.
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a rich, savory depth to the dish with its slightly sweet and briny notes.
– 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Known for its sweet and tangy flavor, hoisin sauce complements the other sauces perfectly.
– 1 tsp cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the steak and vegetables beautifully.
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for stir-frying, it has a high smoke point, which is ideal for this high-heat cooking method.
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh and slightly bitter flavor to the dish.
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Provides a sweet contrast to the green bell pepper.
– 1 large onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and texture.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a pungent, aromatic kick.
– ½ tsp ginger, grated: Infuses the dish with a warm, spicy aroma.
– Optional: sesame seeds & green onions for garnish: These add a touch of nuttiness and freshness as a finishing touch.
**Directions/Instructions**
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions:
1. **Marinate the Steak:**
Start by preparing the flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Add the sliced steak to the mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Allow the steak to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate the meat.
2. **Sear the Steak:**
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated steak slices in batches. Sear each batch for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside. Repeat with the remaining steak, adding more oil if necessary.
3. **Stir-fry the Vegetables:**
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables over medium-high heat until they begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. **Add Garlic and Ginger:**
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. **Combine and Finish:**
Return the seared steak and any accumulated juices back to the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything together, ensuring the steak and vegetables are well coated with the sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. **Garnish and Serve:**
Transfer the sizzling pepper steak and vegetables to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.
**FAQ**
**Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?**
A: Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can substitute it with skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye for a more tender bite.
**Q: How can I make this dish spicier?**
A: To add some heat, consider tossing in a few slices of fresh chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the stir-frying process.
**Q: What can I serve with this dish besides rice?**
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as fried rice, noodles, or even a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
**Conclusion**
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a versatile dish that embodies the delightful complexity of Chinese cuisine. Its balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors makes it a favorite for many. With straightforward preparation and cooking steps, this dish is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to deliver satisfaction. Give it a try, and let the vibrant tastes and aromas transport you to a bustling Chinese kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!