This Chinese Pepper Steak is a takeout-worthy dish made with tender ribeye steak, crisp bell peppers, and onions tossed in a flavorful, homemade stir-fry sauce. The sweet and savory sauce, made with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar, coats every bite, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Serve it over rice for a quick and delicious dinner that’s even better than takeout!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Steak Stir-Fry:
▢ 2 lbs ribeye steak, sliced into thin strips (about 2-inch long pieces)
▢ 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
▢ 1 green bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
▢ 1 medium white onion, chopped into bite-sized pieces
▢ 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)

For the Sauce:
▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▢ 1 tsp black pepper
▢ ½ tsp ginger, minced
▢ 2 tbsp brown sugar
▢ ⅓ cup soy sauce
▢ 1 ¼ cups beef broth
▢ 2 tbsp rice vinegar
▢ 1 tsp sesame oil
▢ 2 tbsp cornstarch

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Steak
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced steak and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the same skillet.

Add the chopped bell peppers and onions, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, black pepper, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, beef broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables.

Pour the prepared sauce over the steak and vegetables.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve the pepper steak hot over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 36 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sodium: 890 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 8 g

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

This easy stir-fry recipe is packed with flavor and texture, making it a go-to meal for many reasons:

Quick & Easy: The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The savory, slightly sweet, and peppery sauce tastes just like your favorite Chinese takeout.
Tender & Juicy Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye cooks quickly and stays moist and flavorful.
Crisp, Colorful Vegetables: The red and green bell peppers and onions add vibrancy and crunch.
Customizable Spice Level: You can easily make it mild or spicy depending on your preference.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over white rice, brown rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

The History Behind Pepper Steak

Pepper Steak is a dish that blends Chinese culinary techniques with American adaptations, making it a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. It is believed to have been inspired by traditional Chinese stir-fry dishes but adapted with American ingredients like bell peppers and beef cuts that were more common in the U.S.

The result is a dish that balances bold, simple flavors—tender steak, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and a thick, flavorful brown sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness. While different versions of pepper steak exist, the essence of the dish remains the same: high-heat stir-frying that locks in freshness and flavor.

Key Ingredients That Make This Dish Stand Out

Every ingredient in this Chinese Pepper Steak recipe plays a crucial role in bringing out the signature flavors:

Ribeye Steak: The marbling in ribeye makes it juicy and flavorful when stir-fried. You can also use flank steak or sirloin for a leaner option.
Bell Peppers: A combination of red and green bell peppers adds color, sweetness, and crunch.
Onions: Provide a slightly caramelized, aromatic flavor that enhances the dish.
Garlic & Ginger: These classic Chinese stir-fry aromatics bring warmth and depth to the dish.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami-rich saltiness to the sauce.
Brown Sugar: Balances the savory and tangy flavors with a slight hint of sweetness.
Black Pepper: Gives the dish its signature bold, peppery kick.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a mild acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
Sesame Oil: Provides a nutty, toasted aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to the steak and vegetables.

Health Benefits of Chinese Pepper Steak

Despite its rich, savory flavors, this dish offers several nutritional benefits:

High in Protein: With 36g of protein per serving, this meal supports muscle growth and satiety.
Packed with Vitamins: Bell peppers and onions provide Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Lower in Calories Than Takeout: Unlike restaurant versions that may use excess oil or MSG, this homemade version contains only 420 calories per serving.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free variation.

Best Ways to Serve Chinese Pepper Steak

This Chinese Pepper Steak is incredibly versatile, pairing well with different side dishes:

Steamed White or Brown Rice: The classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
Fried Rice: Upgrade your meal by serving it over homemade fried rice with eggs and scallions.
Lo Mein or Noodles: Toss the steak and peppers with cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty noodle dish.
Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles: A great low-carb alternative for those looking to cut back on carbs.
Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve alongside broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas for extra greens.

Customizing Your Pepper Steak

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations:

Spicy Pepper Steak: Add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or Szechuan peppercorns for extra heat.
Mushroom Pepper Steak: Toss in sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms for added depth.
Sweet & Spicy: Add pineapple chunks for a hint of natural sweetness.
Extra Crunch: Top with toasted sesame seeds, cashews, or crispy wonton strips.
Teriyaki Twist: Swap out brown sugar for honey and add a dash of teriyaki sauce for a sweeter variation.

Tips for Making the Best Chinese Pepper Steak

To ensure your Pepper Steak turns out restaurant-quality, follow these pro tips:

Slice the Steak Against the Grain: This ensures the meat remains tender and easy to chew.
Use High Heat: Stir-frying at high heat creates a quick sear on the steak, locking in juices.
Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming and achieve a beautiful golden crust on the steak.
Let the Sauce Thicken: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to allow the cornstarch to activate, creating a rich and glossy texture.
Marinate for More Flavor: For extra tenderness, marinate the steak in soy sauce, garlic, and cornstarch for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

Best Drinks to Pair with Chinese Pepper Steak

This bold and savory dish pairs well with light and refreshing beverages:

Jasmine Tea: A fragrant tea that cleanses the palate between bites.
Light Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale balances the savory flavors of the dish.
Mango Iced Tea: The sweetness of mango complements the peppery sauce.
White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling pairs well with the bold umami flavors.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep, storing well for later meals:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked steak and sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Conclusion

Chinese Pepper Steak is the ultimate homemade takeout dish, combining juicy, seared steak with crisp peppers and a flavorful brown sauce. This easy 30-minute meal is packed with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and restaurant-quality taste without the extra sodium or oils of store-bought takeout.

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