CHINESE PEPPER STEAK WITH ONIONS

 

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: A Takeout Classic You Can Make at Home

Craving takeout but want to skip the delivery fees and MSG? Look no further than Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions — a fast, flavorful stir-fry that brings bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavors straight to your kitchen. This dish is a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its tender strips of beef, crisp-tender bell peppers, and caramelized onions tossed in a glossy, garlic-infused sauce.

It’s quick, satisfying, and surprisingly simple — perfect for a weeknight dinner that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — faster than delivery!

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust spice levels to your taste.

• Healthy Option: You control the ingredients — lower sodium, no additives, and high in protein.

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What Is Chinese Pepper Steak?

Originally inspired by Cantonese cooking, Chinese Pepper Steak made its way into American cuisine and became a takeout staple. It typically features:

• Beef strips (usually flank or sirloin),

• Bell peppers (green and red for color and sweetness),

• Onions, and

• A rich, soy-based stir-fry sauce.

The beef is usually marinated and stir-fried until tender, while the veggies are sautéed until just crisp, creating a delicious contrast in textures.

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Key Ingredients

Here’s what brings this dish to life:

• Beef – Flank steak or sirloin works best, sliced thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

• Bell Peppers – Use a mix of green and red for color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.

• Onions – Sliced thick and stir-fried until slightly caramelized.

• Garlic & Ginger – Fresh aromatics that build the flavor base.

• Soy Sauce – Both light and dark soy sauce are commonly used to balance saltiness and depth.

• Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich, savory umami flavor.

• Cornstarch Slurry – Helps thicken the sauce into that signature glossy coating.

• Black Pepper – Adds a sharp, warm kick that defines the dish.

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Pro Cooking Tips

• Slice beef thinly and against the grain – This ensures tender bites that cook quickly.

• Marinate for at least 15 minutes – Even a short marinade makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

• High heat is key – Use a hot wok or skillet to sear the beef quickly without overcooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook the beef in batches if needed to avoid steaming it.

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Serving Suggestions

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice – The perfect canvas for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

• Fried Rice – For an indulgent, restaurant-style experience.

• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Want to get fancy? Top with sesame seeds or sliced scallions for an extra pop of color and crunch.

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Variations to Try

• Spicy Pepper Steak – Add chili flakes or sliced red chilies for a fiery twist.

• Add Veggies – Mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn add texture and nutrients.

• Swap the Protein – Chicken or tofu work great with the same sauce base.

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Final Thoughts

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a timeless dish that hits all the right notes: savory, saucy, slightly sweet, and peppery with melt-in-your-mouth beef and crisp vegetables. Whether you're craving takeout or want to master a new go-to stir-fry, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.