Chinese Pepper Steak II

Chinese Pepper Steak II Recipe - Delicious and Savory

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Pepper Steak II is a classic Chinese dish that features tender slices of flank steak stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. This dish is known for its bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal.

History

The origins of Pepper Steak can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine, where stir-frying meat and vegetables in a flavorful sauce is a common cooking technique. Over the years, this dish has evolved and adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, resulting in variations like Chinese Pepper Steak II.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) flank steak, diagonally sliced
0.25 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp dry sherry
1 tsp sugar
2 tsp cornstarch
0.25 cup water
2 tbsp oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tsp ginger root, peeled and grated
2 scallions, chopped
2 tbsp oil
1 large onion
2 green peppers, sliced

How to prepare

Marinate the steak for 15 minutes or more. Add oil to a hot wok.
Swirl and stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and scallions for 30 seconds.
Using a slotted spoon and reserving the marinade, add half of the steak and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining steak.
Add oil and stir-fry the onion and green peppers for 2 minutes.
Push the vegetables to the sides of the wok.
Add the marinade to the center of the wok and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Blend in the vegetables, add the steak, and heat thoroughly.

Variations

Add sliced mushrooms or bamboo shoots for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute chicken or tofu for the flank steak for a different twist.
Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less black pepper or red pepper flakes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.

- Marinating the steak for at least 15 minutes will help infuse it with flavor.

- Stir-fry the ingredients in batches to ensure even cooking.

- Use a hot wok and keep the ingredients moving to prevent sticking and ensure a quick cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Pepper Steak II can be served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs well with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which involves quickly cooking ingredients in a hot wok over high heat. This method helps retain the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients while creating a delicious dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have flank steak, you can use sirloin or ribeye steak as a substitute. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the steak in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also chop the vegetables ahead of time to save on prep work.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with sliced scallions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve it in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Pepper Steak II pairs well with a side of steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or chow mein noodles. You can also serve it with a side of egg rolls or potstickers for a complete Chinese meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Chinese Pepper Steak II contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Chinese Pepper Steak II contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This dish has around 15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Pepper Steak II provides about 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Chinese Pepper Steak II is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese Pepper Steak II is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender slices of flank steak with bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. With its bold flavors and hearty textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I shuffled through the yellowed index cards and faded clippings, a small piece of paper caught my eye. It was a handwritten recipe for Chinese Pepper Steak II.

I had always been intrigued by Chinese cuisine, with its bold flavors and exotic ingredients. So, I decided to give this recipe a try. Little did I know that this simple act of curiosity would lead me on a culinary journey that would shape the way I cook for years to come.

The recipe called for thinly sliced beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, soy sauce, and a few other ingredients that were easily found at my local market. As I gathered the ingredients and prepped the vegetables, I couldn't help but think about the origins of this recipe. Who had written it down? Where had they learned to make it?

As the savory aroma of the beef sizzling in the pan filled my kitchen, I closed my eyes and imagined myself in a bustling Chinese market, surrounded by vendors selling fresh produce and spices. I could almost hear the chatter of the locals and the clinking of dishes as meals were prepared on open flames.

As the dish came together, the flavors mingling and melding into a symphony of taste, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. The tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce were a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my family and friends.

Over the years, I made Chinese Pepper Steak II countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes. I experimented with different cuts of beef, tried out various combinations of vegetables, and even added my own secret ingredient – a dash of oyster sauce for depth of flavor.

Each time I made this dish, I felt a connection to the unknown cook who had first written down the recipe. I imagined them in their own kitchen, perhaps teaching a loved one how to make this dish, passing down a piece of culinary tradition from one generation to the next.

As I continued to delve into the world of Chinese cuisine, I learned more about the history and techniques behind the dishes I loved to cook. I studied cookbooks, watched cooking shows, and even took a few classes to hone my skills. I became more confident in my abilities in the kitchen, and my love for cooking grew stronger with each dish I made.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to discover Chinese Pepper Steak II, I am filled with gratitude for the simple act of curiosity that set me on this path. Cooking has become more than just a hobby for me – it is a way of connecting with my past, exploring new cultures, and sharing love and nourishment with those around me.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling curious about a new recipe or a different cuisine, I encourage you to follow that instinct. You never know where it might lead you – perhaps to a culinary adventure that will change the way you cook and eat forever. And who knows, maybe one day, your own recipe will find its way into the hands of a curious cook, inspiring them to create something delicious and unforgettable.