Chinese Pepper Steak

Chinese Pepper Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender beef with fresh vegetables, all tossed in a savory soy sauce marinade. This quick stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner, served over rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 pound beef top sirloin steak
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 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

Instructions

1. Slice the Beef:
   Slice the beef top sirloin steak into 1/2-inch thick strips across the grain. This ensures that the beef remains tender during cooking.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, white sugar, cornstarch, and ground ginger until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Marinate the Beef:
   Place the sliced beef into the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
4. Sear the Beef:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir-fry the beef until browned, about 3 minutes per batch. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside.
5. Add Vegetables:
   Return the wok to heat and add another 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced red onion and stir-fry until it begins to soften, about 2 minutes.
6. Incorporate the Bell Pepper:
   Add the green bell pepper to the wok and stir-fry until it becomes vibrant and starts to tenderize, about 2 minutes more.
7. Blend in the Tomatoes:
   Add the tomato wedges to the wok. Stir everything together, allowing the tomatoes to warm and the flavors to meld for about 2 minutes.
8. Combine and Serve:
   Return the cooked beef to the wok and toss everything together to combine and heat through.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4. The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 15 minutes, leading to a total time of around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes.
• Sauce Alterations: Substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, flank steak or ribeye can also work well in this recipe.
2. Is this dish spicy?
   The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and slice the beef in advance to save time.
4. What can I serve with Pepper Steak?
   Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or with noodles for a complete meal.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
6. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
   You can use coconut aminos or a low-sodium soy sauce alternative.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   If using gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.
8. How can I make this dish more filling?
   Add cooked rice or noodles directly into the stir-fry for a heartier meal.
9. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Yes, frozen mixed vegetables can be a convenient alternative, though fresh vegetables offer better texture.
10. Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
    Substitute the beef with tofu or seitan, and adjust the marinade accordingly for a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Chinese Pepper Steak is a deliciously quick and easy stir-fry that brings together tender beef and colorful vegetables in a flavorful soy sauce marinade. Perfect for a busy weeknight or any time you crave a comforting meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal!

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