Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

The Ultimate Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe: Tender, Spicy, and Simply Delicious!

Welcome to another delicious adventure in the kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s as comforting as it is flavorful—Chinese Pepper Steak. This dish has everything you could want: tender beef, a spicy kick, and a richness that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is perfect for all skill levels and cooking preferences. I’ve had the pleasure of perfecting this dish over the years, and I’m excited to share my tips and tricks with you. So, let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic Chinese Pepper Steak:

Beef: Flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain.

Bell Peppers: Red, green, and yellow for a vibrant, colorful dish.

Onion: For added sweetness and texture.

Garlic: Minced for that essential aromatic base.

Fresh Ginger: Grated for a bit of zest.

Soy Sauce: For depth and umami.

Sesame Oil: Adds that distinctive, nutty flavor.

Black Pepper: Freshly cracked for a spicy kick.

Oyster Sauce: For a touch of sweetness and complexity.

Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce and coat the beef.

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you need.

Equipment Needed

Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, the Crock Pot or slow cooker is your best friend. Slow cooking the beef allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender meat that practically melts in your mouth.

Product Recommendation: Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

The Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is an excellent choice for making this Chinese Pepper Steak. With programmable settings and a large capacity, it’s perfect for preparing family-sized meals with minimal effort. Its easy-to-use interface allows you to set the cooking time and temperature, so you can come home to a delicious meal that’s ready to serve.

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Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)

For those who want a quicker alternative, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful meal fast. The pressure cooking function tenderizes the beef in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional methods.

Product Recommendation: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is highly recommended for its versatility and efficiency. It combines multiple appliances into one, offering functions such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing. This makes it an excellent tool for preparing not just Chinese Pepper Steak but a wide range of dishes.

Want to speed up your cooking? Click here to get the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 and make meal prep a breeze!

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Beef

The first step is to prepare your beef. Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Marinate the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step is crucial for achieving that savory depth of flavor.

2. Slow Cooker/Crock Pot Method

Step 1: Heat a bit of sesame oil in a pan and quickly sear the marinated beef to lock in the flavors. This step is optional but recommended for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 2: Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add sliced bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Step 3: Mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a bit of water. Pour this sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables perfectly cooked.

3. Instant Pot Method

Step 1: Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot to brown the marinated beef. This step helps to develop a richer flavor.

Step 2: Add sliced bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot.

Step 3: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce mixture.

Step 4: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 15 minutes. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before using the quick release to let out any remaining pressure.

4. Stir Fry Technique

Regardless of whether you use the slow cooker or Instant Pot, finishing the dish with a quick stir fry adds a delightful texture. Heat a bit of sesame oil in a stir fry pan, add the cooked beef and vegetables, and toss over high heat for a few minutes. This step helps to caramelize the sauce and enhance the flavors.

Cooking Tips

Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is a crucial ingredient that adds a distinctive nutty flavor to the dish. Don’t skip it!

Balancing Spices: Adjust the black pepper to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, use less pepper. For more heat, add more.

Tender Beef: To ensure the beef remains tender, avoid overcooking. Both slow cooking and pressure cooking are excellent methods for achieving tender results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chinese Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. You can also pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or snap peas, or adjust the spice level with additional chili flakes. You can also substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a different twist.

Recommended Reading

For those who want to dive deeper into the world of Chinese cooking, I highly recommend the book "Chinese Takeout Cookbook: Quick and Easy Dishes to Prepare at Home" by Diana Kuan. This cookbook offers a fantastic collection of recipes for classic Chinese dishes, including stir-fries and other favorites. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking to expand their culinary repertoire.

Book Recommendation: Chinese Takeout Cookbook by Diana Kuan

Ready to explore more Chinese cuisine? Click here to purchase "Chinese Takeout Cookbook" by Diana Kuan and bring authentic Chinese flavors into your kitchen!

There you have it—your ultimate guide to making Chinese Pepper Steak that’s tender, spicy, and simply delicious! Whether you opt for the slow cooker method or the Instant Pot, this recipe offers incredible flavor with minimal effort. I’ve enjoyed perfecting this dish over the years and am thrilled to share these tips with you.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! And remember, if you’re looking to simplify your cooking, the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker are fantastic tools to have in your kitchen. For more culinary inspiration, don't miss out on the "Chinese Takeout Cookbook" by Diana Kuan. Happy cooking!