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#### 5. **Oyster Sauce**
**Oyster sauce** is a staple in Chinese cooking and adds a rich, savory, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. It’s a key ingredient that complements the soy sauce and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
#### 6. **Garlic and Ginger**
**Garlic** and **ginger** are aromatic ingredients that add a punch of flavor to the sauce. They help build a fragrant base and contribute to the overall savory and slightly spicy profile of the dish.
#### 7. **Cornstarch**
**Cornstarch** is used to thicken the sauce and give it a silky texture. It’s often used in stir-fry sauces to ensure they coat the beef and vegetables evenly without being too watery. A small amount of cornstarch is usually mixed with water to create a slurry before being added to the sauce.
#### 8. **Sugar**
A small amount of **sugar** is added to balance the salty and savory flavors of the soy sauce and oyster sauce. It provides a hint of sweetness that helps round out the dish, making it more flavorful and satisfying.
#### 9. **Vegetable Oil**
For cooking, you’ll need a neutral **vegetable oil** (such as canola or sunflower oil). It has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for stir-frying at high heat.
#### 10. **Optional Garnishes**
Garnishes like **sesame seeds**, **sliced green onions**, or **chili flakes** can be added at the end to enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal of the dish.
### How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together and create this mouthwatering dish. Follow these simple steps to make Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions from scratch:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing your beef into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. Make sure to cut against the grain to ensure tenderness. Once sliced, transfer the beef to a bowl and add **soy sauce** (2 tablespoons), **cornstarch** (1 teaspoon), and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together and let the beef marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This marinade helps tenderize the beef and infuses it with flavor.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is marinating, slice the **bell peppers** and **onions**. Cut the peppers into thin strips and the onions into half-moons. Set these vegetables aside, as you’ll need them later for stir-frying.
#### Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining **soy sauce** (2 tablespoons), **oyster sauce** (1 tablespoon), **sugar** (1 tablespoon), and **water** (1/4 cup). Stir in the **cornstarch** (1 teaspoon) to create a smooth slurry. This mixture will become the sauce that brings the dish together.
#### Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add **vegetable oil** (2 tablespoons) and let it heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear. Stir-fry the beef for another 2-3 minutes until it’s cooked through and browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
#### Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the **onions** and **bell peppers** to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, just until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. You want the vegetables to stay vibrant and fresh in texture, so don’t overcook them.
#### Step 6: Combine Beef, Vegetables, and Sauce
Add the cooked beef back into the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss everything together. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water to adjust the consistency.
#### Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined and the sauce is thick and glossy, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the dish with **sliced green onions**, **sesame seeds**, or **chili flakes** for an extra touch of flavor. Serve the Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
### Tips for Perfect Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
– **Marinate the beef**: For the most tender results, don’t skip the marinating step. It helps infuse the beef with flavor and makes it more tender when cooked.
– **High heat is key**: Stir-frying is all about cooking quickly at high heat. Be sure to preheat your wok or pan before adding the oil and beef to achieve the best sear on the meat.
– **Customize with additional veggies**: You can
add other vegetables like **snow peas**, **carrots**, or **mushrooms** to enhance the dish and add more flavor and texture.
– **Adjust the spice level**: If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some **red pepper flakes**, **chili paste**, or even **fresh chili peppers** to the sauce.
– **Use fresh ingredients**: Fresh garlic and ginger make a big difference in the flavor of the sauce. Don’t substitute with dried versions for the best results.
### Conclusion
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce. It’s a dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or entertaining guests. With a few basic ingredients and some quick stir-frying, you can recreate this beloved Chinese-American classic at home and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
