Introduction
Pepper steak is a classic Chinese-American stir-fry dish made with tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of spice, crunch, and umami goodness.
🧺 Ingredients
For the Steak:
1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
1 tbsp cornstarch
½ cup beef broth or water
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavor)
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1 large green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper.
Mix well and let sit for 15–30 minutes to tenderize.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, beef broth, and sugar.
Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until browned.
Remove beef and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry Vegetables
Add another 1 tbsp oil to the same pan.
Stir-fry onion and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Combine Everything
Return beef to the pan.
Pour in the sauce and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper.
Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
6. Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
📝 Description
Pepper steak is a flavorful and colorful dish featuring juicy beef, crisp peppers, and a glossy savory sauce. The sauce blends salty soy, umami oyster, and a hint of sweetness — perfectly complementing the tender meat and fresh vegetables. It’s a restaurant-style meal you can make in under 30 minutes at home.
💡 Tips
Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Use high heat for a quick sear — this keeps the beef juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Adjust black pepper and sauce sweetness to your taste.
If you like spice, add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha.
🌀 Variations
Spicy Pepper Steak: Add sliced chili peppers or extra black pepper.
Ginger Garlic Pepper Steak: Add 1 tsp minced ginger with the garlic.
Vegetable Mix: Include mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn.
Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip oyster sauce.
Sweet & Tangy: Add 1 tbsp rice vinegar or pineapple chunks for a twist.
✅ Correction
If your beef turns out tough:
Slice thinner or marinate longer.
Avoid overcooking — high heat and quick cooking keep it tender.
If your sauce is too thick:
Add a bit more broth or water to loosen it.
If it’s too salty:
Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of water to balance flavors.
😋 Enjoy
Serve your sizzling pepper steak fresh from the wok — juicy, peppery, and bursting with flavor. Perfect with a bowl of rice and a side of happiness!