Chinese Pepper Steak

If you love the rich, savory flavors of Chinese takeout, this Chinese Pepper Steak recipe is the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality stir-fry to your own kitchen. With tender strips of marinated beef, crisp bell peppers, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes, this dish offers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick stir-fry recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. Skip the takeout and savor the homemade version that’s fresher, tastier, and just as comforting.

🥡 Why You’ll Love This Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

• Tender, juicy beef infused with bold soy-ginger flavor
• Crisp, colorful vegetables for balance and texture
• Quick, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes
• Minimal ingredients with classic, takeout-style taste
• Perfect with steamed rice for a satisfying meal

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound beef top sirloin steak
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
• 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges

⏱️ Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice the Beef

• Thinly slice the beef sirloin into ½-inch thick strips, cutting across the grain.
• Cutting across the grain ensures tender, easy-to-chew bites.

2. Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and ground ginger until smooth.
• Ensure the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Marinate the Beef

• Add the sliced beef to the marinade, tossing to coat every piece.
• Let sit for a few minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

4. Sear the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Stir-fry the beef in batches for about 3 minutes until browned.
• Remove beef from the pan and set aside.

5. Cook the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
• Stir in the red onion, cooking for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
• Add the green bell pepper, cooking an additional 2 minutes until vibrant and slightly tender.

6. Combine and Finish

• Return the cooked beef to the pan.
• Add the tomato wedges, stir-frying briefly to combine and heat through.
• Cook just until tomatoes soften slightly and flavors blend.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Chinese Pepper Steak hot over steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

🔥 Pro Tips for Best Results

• Slice beef thin and across the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Use high heat to sear the beef quickly without overcooking.
• Adjust soy sauce or sugar levels to taste.
• Swap green bell pepper for red or yellow for color variety.
• Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for extra heat.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy steamed rice or fried rice
• Pair with stir-fried noodles or lo mein
• Add a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a complete takeout-style meal

💬 Final Thoughts

This Chinese Pepper Steak brings the bold, savory flavors of your favorite takeout straight to your dinner table — fast, easy, and better than delivery. With tender marinated beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy, flavorful sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll make again and again.

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