Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Large Batch

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 3 pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for tenderness)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for a little tang)
Vegetables:
- 3 large green bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 2 large red bell peppers, sliced into strips (for color)
- 3 large yellow or white onions, sliced into wedges
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
For Cooking:
- 3–4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced beef with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tbsp oil, Shaoxing wine, and baking soda if using.
- Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to 1 hour in the fridge).
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, vinegar, black pepper, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry in Batches:
- Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add beef in batches (don’t overcrowd) and sear until browned, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Remove to a clean bowl or plate.
4. Cook the Veggies:
- Add a bit more oil to the wok. Stir-fry onions and bell peppers until slightly tender but still crisp (about 4–5 minutes).
- Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything:
- Return the beef to the wok with the veggies.
- Pour in the sauce and stir well. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well coated.
6. Serve:
- Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Storage:
- Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months.