Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your kitchen. Using an electric pressure cooker like an Instant Pot, this recipe combines tender beef strips with bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lb beef strips (thinly sliced round steaks)
  • 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:

  1. Combining Ingredients:
    • Place the beef strips, green and red bell peppers, and onion slices in an electric pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot).
  2. Seasoning:
    • Add garlic powder, brown sugar, and soy sauce to the beef and peppers.
  3. Adding Liquid:
    • Pour the beef broth into the pressure cooker and stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Cooking:
    • Close the lid of the pressure cooker securely. Set the pressure to high and cook for 15 minutes.
  5. Releasing Pressure:
    • After cooking, perform a quick release or natural release to tenderize the steak further.
  6. Thickening the Sauce:
    • Remove the lid and switch the pressure cooker to sauté mode.
    • In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 cup of cold water with the cornstarch. Stir this mixture into the contents of the Instant Pot.
    • Bring the sauce to a boil and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until it thickens.

FAQ Section:

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? A1: Yes, you can use other types of meat like chicken or pork, but cooking times may vary.

Q2: Is it possible to make this recipe without a pressure cooker? A2: Yes, you can make it in a skillet or wok over the stove, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A3: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snow peas for added nutrition and variety.

Q4: How can I store leftovers? A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I make this dish spicier? A5: Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the recipe for extra heat.

Enjoy your Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender beef and crisp vegetables in a savory sauce is sure to please everyone at the table.