Craving that savory, satisfying taste of Chinese takeout pepper steak but without the takeout price tag? This easy homemade recipe delivers all the deliciousness you crave, right in your own kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on simple, readily available ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly quick and easy to make. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this flavorful classic.
This recipe perfectly balances tender beef strips with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all coated in a rich, savory sauce that’s both sweet and slightly spicy. Forget the mystery ingredients and excessive sodium of takeout – this recipe empowers you to control the flavor profile and create a healthier, more satisfying meal. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step process for making the best homemade pepper steak you've ever tasted!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan
- Strainer
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- Green peppers
- Red peppers
- Onions: 2 (1 might be enough)
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Beef flank steak: 1/2 of a large piece
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking soda
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Oil
- Sugar
- Black pepper
- Chicken stock
- Water: A little bit
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and chop vegetables (green peppers, red peppers, onions, garlic, ginger).
- Cut beef flank steak against the grain into thin slices.
- Place the sliced beef in a bowl. Add baking soda (for velveting) and a little water. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, rinse the beef in a strainer under cold water to remove excess baking soda and moisture.
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken stock, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, oyster sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well.
Step 2. Marinate and Season the Beef
- Season the beef with half of the black pepper, cornstarch, soy sauce, oil, ginger, garlic, and sugar.
Step 3. Stir-fry and Combine
- Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir-fry the seasoned beef for about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Add the sauce to the beef and stir until thickened. Add more cornstarch if needed.
- Fold in the stir-fried vegetables, ensuring all pieces are coated in the sauce.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Cut the steak thinly against the grain for tender results.
- Don't add too much water to the beef when marinating; you don't want it to boil when stir-frying.
- Use large, chunky pieces for the vegetables.
- Remove all excess moisture from the beef before stir-frying to prevent boiling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 35-45g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes! Sirloin, flank steak, or even stew beef will work well. Just be sure to cut it against the grain into thin strips for optimal tenderness.
2. What if I don't have cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or even all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute, though the sauce might be slightly less glossy. Use about the same amount.
So there you have it – a delicious, easy-to-follow recipe for Chinese takeout-style pepper steak that you can make right at home. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the pride of creating this restaurant-quality meal yourself. Now go forth and conquer your cravings!