Hello, food lovers! Are you craving a savory, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfies the whole family? This Chinese Onion Pepper Steak recipe is just what you need. Packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat. Using an Instant Pot makes it a breeze, ensuring the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Introduction
Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is a beloved dish that combines tender beef strips with the earthy sweetness of bell peppers and onions. This dish is inspired by classic Chinese-American cuisine, where simplicity meets bold, savory flavors. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar creates a tangy yet slightly sweet sauce that perfectly complements the beef and vegetables. Plus, with the help of an electric pressure cooker, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable Chinese Onion Pepper Steak, you’ll need:
- 1.5 pounds of beef strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced thick
- 1/2 onion, minced thickly
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups of beef broth
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor, with tender beef and vibrant vegetables.
How to Make Chinese Onion Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by slicing your beef into strips and cutting the vegetables. Ensure the bell pepper slices are thick to maintain their texture during cooking, and mince the onion thickly to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Place the beef, green bell peppers, and onions into the Instant Pot. Sprinkle the garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper over the top. Add the soy sauce and brown sugar, stirring everything together to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Cook
Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all the ingredients are covered. Secure the Instant Pot lid, and set it to high pressure for approximately 15 minutes. This cooking method locks in the flavors and tenderizes the beef strips.
Step 4: Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release. If you prefer the steak to have a fall-apart texture, opt for a natural release instead. Both methods yield delicious results.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode. In a separate small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of cold water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the Instant Pot, blending it into the pepper steak. Allow it to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef and vegetables.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is thickened to your liking, turn off the Instant Pot and serve the dish hot. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Choosing the Right Cut of Beef: Use flank steak or sirloin for the best results. These cuts are tender and cook beautifully in the Instant Pot.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add red or yellow bell peppers for a pop of color and a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Slice the beef and vegetables ahead of time to make dinner preparation even faster.
- Soy Sauce Options: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
Cooking Tips
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Sauté the Beef First: For an added layer of flavor, you can brown the beef strips on sauté mode before adding the rest of the ingredients.
- Avoid Overcooking: Bell peppers should be thickly sliced to maintain some crunch, as they can become mushy if overcooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chinese Onion Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried noodles. For a lighter option, pair it with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens like bok choy. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a finishing touch. This dish also pairs wonderfully with classic Chinese appetizers like egg rolls or wonton soup.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin C: 40%
- Iron: 15%
This dish is high in protein and rich in essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, chicken or pork strips can be used as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Replace the beef with firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
What other vegetables can I add? Mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn are excellent additions to this dish for extra texture and flavor.
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Conclusion
Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the bold tastes of Chinese-American cuisine right to your kitchen. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish delivers on both flavor and convenience. Try it today and enjoy every savory bite!