Chinese Pepper Steak Stir-Fry

Chinese Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is vibrant and bold with tender steak and crisp peppers coming together in a naturally savory sauce. I make this dish whenever I want something fast and satisfying that still feels a bit special and full of color.

The first time I made this for my family everyone went back for seconds and even my picky eaters wanted leftovers for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

• Beef top sirloin steak: because it cooks quickly and stays tender when sliced across the grain Look for bright red meat with a little marbling for best flavor
• Soy sauce: brings salty umami to the sauce Choose low sodium if you prefer less salt
• White sugar: balances the saltiness and gives a classic Chinese restaurant style glaze
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce and makes the beef silky Make sure it is fresh and lump free
• Ground ginger: adds warmth and depth Use a good quality ground spice for best flavor
• Vegetable oil: is perfect for high heat stir frying I prefer neutral oils like canola or sunflower for clean taste
• Red onion: gives bite and a slight sweetness Choose firm onions with shiny skin for crunch
• Green bell pepper: adds color and a crisp fresh note Pick peppers with glossy skin and no soft spots
• Tomatoes: create a bright accent and a touch of tang Go for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a fresh scent

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Steak:

Cut beef into half inch thick strips across the grain This helps the meat stay tender and easy to chew

Make the Marinade:

Combine soy sauce white sugar cornstarch and ground ginger in a bowl Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is completely dissolved

Marinate the Beef:

Add beef strips to the marinade Toss and press the beef so each piece gets evenly coated Let it sit while you prepare the vegetables

Sear the Beef:

Add one tablespoon of oil to a hot wok or skillet over medium high heat Cook the beef in batches Spread the strips out so they brown well Stir often for about three minutes until just browned Remove the beef to a bowl

Cook Onion:

Return the wok to the heat with another tablespoon of oil Add red onion pieces Sauté about two minutes so they start to soften but do not let them fully wilt

Add Peppers:

Add the green bell pepper squares to the wok Stir fry for two minutes until the peppers brighten up and become crisp tender

Combine Everything with Tomato:

Add tomato wedges to the pan along with the reserved beef Toss well to combine and let the flavors meld for another minute

Finish and Serve:

As soon as the beef is heated through serve the stir fry on a platter or bowl It is perfect with a mound of hot steamed rice

Pin it

I always look forward to the juicy bursts of tomato in every bite it was my grandmother’s secret touch that I have kept in every version I make My kids say the sweet sauce is their favorite part and ask for extra to spoon over rice

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce Avoid microwaving too long to keep the steak from getting tough

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the sirloin for flank steak or even chicken breast for a lighter version Red and yellow bell peppers are interchangeable for different colors Soy sauce can be replaced with coconut aminos for a soy free option

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pepper steak hot with white or brown rice Add a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli alongside if you like For a crowd offer lettuce wraps and let guests fill their own

Pin it

Cultural Context

Pepper steak stir fry has roots in Chinese American cooking and was popularized by Chinese restaurants in the mid twentieth century The use of tomatoes nods to Cantonese style dishes though every family’s version has its own spin Mine is inspired by quick skillet suppers my parents used to make on busy nights

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of beef is best for this dish?

Top sirloin steak is ideal, as it remains tender when stir-fried. Slice across the grain for best results.

→ How do you prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Slice the beef thinly across the grain and cook over high heat for just a few minutes to maintain tenderness.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, try adding snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra color and crunch. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ What’s the purpose of cornstarch in the marinade?

Cornstarch helps tenderize the beef and provides a silky texture to the sauce, coating each ingredient evenly.

→ What's a good side to serve with this stir-fry?

Steamed white rice is a classic choice, but it also pairs well with brown rice or noodles.