Why We Love Pepper Steak

Chinese Pepper Steak has been a childhood favorite of mine, cherished as much as my mother’s raw kale salad, Choucroute Garnie, and black bean soup. I always thought my mom created it until I discovered that Pepper Steak is a beloved Chinese American classic. The irresistible, savory stir-fry sauce infused with ginger and black peppercorns, along with the hearty beef and tender peppers, are simply satisfying!

Pepper Steak Stir Fry Ingredients

This recipe utilizes simple pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Just grab some beef, ginger root, green onions, and colorful bell peppers, and you’re set!

• Steak: New York strip works well, but sirloin or round cuts can be used for a budget-friendly option.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of colors is great! Note that green bell peppers have a more bitter flavor while red, orange, and yellow are sweeter.
• Whole Black Peppercorns: This recipe uses crushed black peppercorns for added spice; you’ll need 1 teaspoon.
• Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger root and a large garlic clove are essential for flavor.
• Green Onions: Sliced sweet or red onion can be used in place of green onions.
• Cornstarch: Used for thickening the sauce.
• Pantry Staples: High heat cooking oil, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce create a rich flavor profile.
• Parsley: Added for color at the end; omit if you don’t have any.

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak

Step 1: Crush the Peppercorns

Seal peppercorns in a small resealable bag and crush them using a small skillet or the flat side of a meat mallet. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle until cracked.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Sprinkle the crushed pepper and salt mixture evenly over the sliced steak pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

In a large skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the steak in a single layer and sear until browned, then stir-fry until no longer pink; transfer to a plate and cover with foil.

Step 4: Cook the Peppers

Reduce heat to medium-high. Add remaining oil, then add peppers, scallions, ginger, and garlic. Stir often until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a measuring cup, mix broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch.

Step 6: Combine Skillet and Sauce

Pour the broth mixture into the skillet with veggies; stir well, cover, and cook until the peppers are tender.

Step 7: Finish the Stir Fry

Add the steak back to the skillet and simmer while stirring. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired!