Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a savory and flavorful dish that combines tender beef strips with colorful bell peppers and onions, all cooked to perfection in a rich and aromatic sauce. This recipe offers a convenient method for preparing this classic dish using an electric pressure cooker, ensuring that it’s both delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb beef strips (thinly sliced round steaks work well)
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into thick slices
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thick slices
- 1/2 onion, thickly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions:
- Begin by placing the beef strips, green and red bell peppers, and onion slices into the electric pressure cooker.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, ground ginger, black pepper, brown sugar, and soy sauce over the beef and vegetables.
- Pour the beef broth into the Instant Pot.
- Stir the ingredients to ensure they are evenly combined.
- Secure the lid on the pressure cooker, ensuring it is tightly closed. Set the pressure to high for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to release the pressure, or allow a natural release for a more tender result.
- Remove the lid and press the Cancel button on the pressure cooker. Switch the cooker to sauté mode.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of cold water with the cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pepper steak in the Instant Pot.
- Allow the mixture to come to a boil and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, your Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is ready to be served.
Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef strips in the soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or increase the amount of brown sugar for sweetness.
- Serve the pepper steak over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a delightful dish that brings together tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions in a delectable sauce. With the convenience of an electric pressure cooker, you can enjoy this flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures.
- Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests thinly sliced round steaks, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stir-frying or pressure cooking. Flank steak or sirloin steak are excellent alternatives. Ensure the beef is thinly sliced to ensure quick and even cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, you can trim excess fat from the beef before slicing.
- How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
- If you prefer a spicier version of Chinese Pepper Steak, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the dish before cooking. You can also include a drizzle of hot sauce or chili oil when serving to add an extra kick of heat. Adjust the amount of spice according to your heat tolerance to achieve the desired level of spiciness.
- Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
- Yes, you can prepare Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions ahead of time for convenience. After cooking and thickening the sauce, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the pepper steak in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens further during storage.
- What Side Dishes Pair Well with Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
- Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Steamed white or brown rice: Serve the pepper steak over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Stir-fried vegetables: Prepare a medley of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms to complement the beef and add freshness to the meal.
- Noodles: Opt for cooked lo mein noodles or rice noodles as an alternative to rice for a hearty and filling accompaniment.
- Asian-inspired salads: Create a vibrant salad using crisp lettuce, cucumber, bell peppers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pepper steak.
- Steamed buns or dumplings: Enjoy Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions alongside steamed buns or dumplings for a comforting and satisfying dining experience.