Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Pepper steak with bell peppers and onion is a classic stir-fry dish that combines tender slices of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s perfect for weeknights. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

What Is Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion?

Pepper steak is a popular stir-fry dish featuring thinly sliced beef, typically flank steak or sirloin, cooked with bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic creates a rich and umami-packed flavor profile. This dish is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Versatile: Can be served over rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Packed with Flavor: The savory sauce and fresh vegetables create a delicious balance of taste and texture.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or switch up the vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
• 1 tbsp (8 g) cornstarch
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
• 1 tsp (4 g) sugar
• ½ tsp (1 g) black pepper
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced steak with 2 tbsp soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.

Cooking the Beef

2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
3. Sear the beef in batches, cooking each batch for 2-3 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

4. Add the remaining oil to the skillet.
5. Stir-fry the red and green bell peppers and onion for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Making the Sauce

7. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
8. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and bring it to a simmer.

Combining the Ingredients

9. Return the beef to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce.
10. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pepper steak hot over a bed of steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of egg rolls or a simple Asian-style salad.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pepper Steak: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili paste to the sauce for extra heat.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to reduce the salt content.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all sauces are gluten-free, and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, skirt steak or ribeye also work well for this recipe.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar as an alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and slice the vegetables in advance. Cook everything fresh to maintain the texture of the dish.

Pepper steak with bell peppers and onion is a flavorful and fuss-free recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your kitchen. It’s versatile, customizable, and sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Try it tonight and share your experience!

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