This Air Fryer Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions brings the bold, savory flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen—without the extra oil or calories! Tender strips of beef are coated in a rich, peppery sauce, perfectly balanced with sweet onions and vibrant bell peppers. Cooking in the air fryer gives the steak a beautifully caramelized finish while keeping it juicy inside. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or Shaoxing wine
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
Slice the steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a teaspoon of oil. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes for extra flavor and tenderness. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. - Air Fry the Beef:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the beef is browned and slightly crispy. - Cook the Vegetables:
Toss the sliced onions and bell peppers with a little sesame oil and minced garlic. Add them to the air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, or until slightly tender but still crisp. - Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked beef to the air fryer basket with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and toss to coat. Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the sauce thicken and coat the beef and vegetables. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on the cut of beef and sauces used.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve with jasmine or brown rice for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a lighter option.
- Noodles: Toss with lo mein or rice noodles for a more traditional Chinese dish feel.
Let me know if you’d like to tweak the spice level or make it gluten-free! 😊
