Pepper steak is a yummy dish that brings together tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and sweet onions. It’s quick to make and full of flavor, perfect for any dinner!
I love how the crunch of the peppers adds a fun texture. Serve it over rice for a filling meal—your taste buds will thank you! 🍚❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using sirloin or flank steak for tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers adds color and sweetness. Feel free to use yellow or orange peppers, too! If you’re allergic to bell peppers, try zucchini or broccoli as a substitute.
Onion: Yellow onions offer sweetness that caramelizes nicely. If you’re in a hurry, use green onions for a milder flavor.
Oyster Sauce: This gives a rich flavor, but if you want a vegetarian alternative, try mushroom sauce or skip it altogether, using more soy sauce instead.
Cornstarch: It helps thicken the sauce. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as a substitute.
How Can You Get Tender, Flavorful Beef?
Getting perfectly cooked beef is key! Here’s how:
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This helps it cook quickly and stay tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If there’s too much beef, it will steam rather than sear.
- Cook it just until browned. Overcooking leads to tougher meat. Aim for 3-5 minutes on high heat.
By following these tips, your beef will be juicy and full of flavor!
Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium yellow onion, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth until smooth. This will be your flavorful sauce that coats the beef and vegetables. Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef. Stir-fry the beef until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Then, add the minced garlic and optional ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant—just enough to release their delicious aroma!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the bell peppers and onion chunks. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but are still crisp. This keeps the vegetables vibrant and crunchy.
5. Combine and Thicken:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and create a tasty glaze.
6. Season and Serve:
Lastly, season with freshly ground black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and salt to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finishing touch. Serve your pepper steak hot over steamed white rice for a hearty meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and colorful Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion! 🍚
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken or shrimp if preferred. For a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh works well and will absorb the sauce flavors beautifully.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and slice the meat, then store them separately in the fridge. Just cook it all fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like it spicy, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce. You could also include slices of fresh jalapeño or chili peppers while cooking!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or in the microwave until heated through.