Savor the Golden State Twist on Chinese Pepper Beef with Onions

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California cuisine is often celebrated for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, and when it comes to Chinese-American favorites like Pepper Beef with Onions, California's love for bold and balanced dishes shines through. This popular dish blends the savory taste of tender beef with the crunch of bell peppers and the zing of onions, all wrapped up in a rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make recipe brings the best of California's produce and culinary traditions to your kitchen.

A Taste of California in Every Bite

What makes this Chinese Pepper Beef with Onions unique in the Golden State is the focus on fresh, local ingredients. California-grown bell peppers and onions add vibrant color and sweetness, while tender slices of beef bring a hearty, savory base. The dish is typically stir-fried at high heat, which locks in the flavor while keeping the vegetables crisp. A simple yet flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, beef broth, and a hint of brown sugar ties everything together, creating a meal that's both satisfying and quick to prepare.

Recipe: Chinese Pepper Beef with Onions, California Style

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef strips (thinly sliced round steaks work well)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced thick
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thick
• 1/2 large onion, thickly sliced
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. In a pressure cooker, combine the beef, peppers, and onions.
2. Sprinkle garlic powder, ginger, black pepper, and brown sugar over the mixture, and pour soy sauce and beef broth on top.
3. Secure the lid and cook at high pressure for 15 minutes. Use the quick release method for firmer beef or let it naturally release for softer meat.
4. After cooking, set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the beef mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Bringing It All Together

Chinese Pepper Beef with Onions is a perfect way to incorporate bold flavors and nutritious ingredients into a weeknight dinner. The dish pairs well with jasmine rice or even noodles for a comforting, hearty meal. The combination of juicy beef, crispy bell peppers, and sweet onions ensures a delightful bite every time. Whether you're in California or beyond, this dish brings the warmth of the West Coast to your dining table, offering a flavorful escape with every mouthful.

For more inspiration and details, check out the detailed recipe resources from sources like Allrecipes​(Allrecipes) and Modern Meal Makeover​(Modern Meal Makeover).