Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is a mouth-watering dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine straight to your kitchen. Utilizing the convenience of an electric pressure cooker, such as an Instant Pot, this recipe simplifies the cooking process without sacrificing the depth of flavor characteristic of the dish. The combination of tender beef strips with the crispness of green bell pepper and the sharpness of onion, all wrapped in a savory sauce, makes this dish a delightful treat. Below, we explore a detailed recipe that will guide you through each step of creating this delicious meal, along with serving suggestions and helpful tips to ensure your Chinese Onion Pepper Steak is a success.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of beef strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced thick
- ½ onion, minced thickly
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups of beef broth
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by placing the beef strips, sliced green bell pepper, and minced onion into the electric pressure cooker. This mix of ingredients will form the base of your dish, providing a balanced mix of protein and vegetables.
Step 2: Add the seasoning to the mix – sprinkle over the garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Then, add the brown sugar and soy sauce directly to the beef and vegetables. The soy sauce not only seasons the dish but also adds a moistness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 3: Pour the beef broth into the pressure cooker, gently stirring to combine all the ingredients. The broth will serve as the liquid base for the pressure cooking process, infusing the beef and vegetables with additional flavor.
Step 4: Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and ensure it is properly closed. Set the pressure to high and cook for approximately 15 minutes. This cooking time allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Upon completion, perform a quick release to depressurize the cooker. Alternatively, you can opt for a natural release if you prefer the steak to be more tender and closer to a "crumble" texture.
Step 6: After releasing the pressure, remove the cover and press the Cancel button to stop the cooking process. Switch the appliance to sauté mode to thicken the sauce.
Step 7: In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup of cold water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir this mixture into the pressure cooker to thicken the sauce enveloping the pepper steak.
Step 8: Bring the contents to a boil for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This final step will thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the beef and vegetables for maximum flavor.
COOKING Note:
The secret to a perfectly thickened sauce lies in the cornstarch slurry. Ensure the water is cold when mixing with cornstarch to avoid lumps. This mixture is crucial for achieving the glossy, rich sauce that is a hallmark of Chinese Onion Pepper Steak.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Chinese Onion Pepper Steak hot, ideally over a bed of steamed white rice or noodles. The savory sauce complements the grains, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips:
- For an added crunch, consider adding more vegetables like red bell peppers or snow peas during the sauté phase.
- Adjust the soy sauce and brown sugar to taste, depending on your preference for a saltier or sweeter sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slurry slightly. Just be sure to mix well to avoid clumping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (including pressure release and sautéing)
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the cut of beef and additional ingredients used.
Protein: Roughly 25-30g per serving, making it a protein-rich option for mealtime.
Sodium: Varies based on the soy sauce and beef broth used. Opt for low-sodium options to control the salt content.
Chinese Onion Pepper Steak made in an electric pressure cooker is a testament to the versatility and convenience of modern cooking appliances. This recipe delivers all the flavor of a traditional Chinese dish with a fraction of the effort, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. By following the steps outlined above, you'll be able to create a delicious, savory meal that's sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delightful taste of your homemade Chinese Onion Pepper Steak!
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