Chinese-Style Beef with Peppers and Onions, or Bœuf à la Chinoise avec Poivrons et Oignons, is a delightful stir-fry dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This recipe combines tender slices of beef with crisp, colorful peppers and sweet onions, all coated in a savory sauce that’s a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to a dinner party menu. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
2. Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water or beef stock
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
3. Directions
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and water or beef stock. Set aside.
- Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the onions, peppers, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Combine: Return the beef to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
4. How to Prepare
The key to a great stir-fry is preparation. Have all your ingredients sliced and ready before you start cooking, as the process moves quickly. Use a hot wok or skillet to achieve a good sear on the beef and maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the ingredients to steam instead of stir-frying. Adjust the sauce’s seasoning to suit your taste, adding more soy sauce for saltiness or hoisin sauce for sweetness.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 as a main dish.
7. FAQs
Q1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, skirt steak, ribeye, or even ground beef can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms are great additions to this dish.
Q3. Can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or sliced red chilies to the stir-fry for extra heat.
Q4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can slice the ingredients and make the sauce in advance, but cook the dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Q5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
8. Conclusion
Chinese-Style Beef with Peppers and Onions is a quick, delicious, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender beef, vibrant peppers, and flavorful sauce come together to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete dinner that will impress your family or guests. Try this recipe today and savor the bold, irresistible flavors of this classic stir-fry! Bon appétit!