Pepper steak is a quick and tasty dish that combines tender beef with colorful bell peppers and onions. Each bite is juicy and packed with flavor!
This meal is perfect for busy nights because it cooks up in no time. I love serving it over rice for a filling and delicious dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak works well, as they’re both tender cuts. If you prefer a leaner option, use chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Bell Peppers: A mix of green, red, and yellow adds color and flavor. If you’re looking for substitutes, try using any color of bell pepper or even sliced carrots or zucchini for variety.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness to the dish. Yellow onions are my favorite, but white or sweet onions can be used too. If onions aren’t your thing, you could skip them or use scallions for a milder flavor.
Sauces: Soy sauce is crucial for flavor; if gluten-free, choose tamari instead. Oyster sauce gives depth, but you can omit it if you need a vegan option. Just add a bit more soy sauce for flavor!
How Do You Achieve Tender Beef with Great Flavor?
To keep the beef tender and flavorful, there are a couple of key steps:
- Coat with Cornstarch: Tossing the beef in cornstarch not only helps it brown nicely but also thickens the sauce.
- Stir-Fry Quickly: Cook the beef over high heat for a short time to prevent it from getting tough. You want it brown on the outside but still juicy on the inside.
Remove the beef from the pan before it’s fully cooked to ensure it stays tender while continuing to cook with the veggies and sauce.
Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pepper Steak takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by tossing the beef strips in a medium bowl with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This will help create a nice crispy texture and thicken the sauce later on.
2. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Stir-Fry the Onions:
Add the sliced onion to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Onions bring such great flavor, so let them cook a little!
5. Add the Bell Peppers:
Now, add the green, red, and yellow bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp and colorful. You want them to keep their crunch!
6. Combine and Flavor:
Return the beef to the pan and mix everything well. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Stir to combine all those tasty flavors.
7. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the water or beef broth to create a little sauce. This will bring everything together. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. You want it just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your beautiful Pepper Steak with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy it hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Bon appétit! Your colorful Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is ready to impress.
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken breast, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like some heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You could also include sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the bell peppers for an extra kick!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the beef and vegetables, then store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to toss the beef in cornstarch right before cooking for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist if needed.