Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp baking soda (optional, for tenderizing)
- 1 tsp vegetable oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color; optional)
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
🔪 Instructions:
1.
Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, baking soda (if using), and oil.
- Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
2.
Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients except the cornstarch slurry. Stir and set aside.
3.
Sear the Beef:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a hot wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add beef in a single layer. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through.
- Remove beef and set aside.
4.
Stir-Fry Vegetables:
- In the same wok, add 1 more tbsp oil.
- Add onions, stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add bell peppers, garlic, and ginger (if using). Stir-fry another 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
5.
Combine & Sauce:
- Return beef to the wok.
- Pour in the sauce and stir well.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and beef is fully cooked — about 2–3 minutes.
6.
Serve Hot:
- Serve sizzling hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
- Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
🔥 Tips for Best Flavor:
- High heat is key — use a wok or cast iron skillet for that authentic sizzle.
- Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing beef; cook in batches if needed.
🥡 Better Than Takeout!
This homemade Chinese pepper steak beats takeout — it’s fresher, less greasy, and fully customizable. Want more heat? Add chili flakes or sliced Thai chilies. Want more sauce? Double the sauce ingredients and thicken to taste.