Chinese Pepper Steak

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, sliced very thin against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (highly recommended for authentic flavor)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (this is the secret to tender “velveted” beef)
• 1 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus extra for finishing)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• 1 tsp grated ginger (optional but adds great aroma)

• 1 large bell pepper (red or green), sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced into thick wedges or strips
• 1 tsp oil (to toss the vegetables)

• Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Marinate the Beef (15–20 Minutes) In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, oil, black pepper, garlic, and ginger. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss until every piece is coated. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 15 to 20 minutes . Note: If you are short on time, you can skip the marinade, but the cornstarch really helps keep the beef juicy under high heat.
2. Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3 to 5 minutes . Preheating is crucial here—it helps the beef sear rather than steam, giving it that “sizzling” texture .
3. Step 3: Air Fry the Beef (First Phase) Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off (too much liquid will steam the meat). Place the beef in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary . Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 6 to 8 minutes , shaking the basket halfway through. The beef should be browned on the edges but still juicy .
4. Step 4: Add the Vegetables (Second Phase) While the beef cooks, toss the sliced onions and bell peppers with a teaspoon of oil. Once the beef is done, remove it from the basket and set it aside. Add the vegetables to the air fryer. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 4 to 6 minutes , shaking once, until the onions are soft and the peppers are tender-crisp with slight char marks .
5. Step 5: Combine and Finish Return the beef to the air fryer with the vegetables. If you have any leftover marinade, drizzle it over the top (ensure it has not touched raw meat—if it has, bring it to a boil in a small pan first for safety). Air fry for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at 190°C (375°F) just to heat everything through and meld the flavors . Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or extra black pepper.
6. Step 6: Serve Immediately Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: ~300–350 kcal · Protein: ~30–35g · Fat: ~18–22g · Carbohydrates: ~6–10g · Fiber: ~1–2g · Sodium: ~600–900mg (depends on soy sauce brand)