Discover the Flavors of Pepper Steak
Pepper steak is a classic dish that combines tender slices of steak with vibrant peppers, all seasoned to perfection for a mouthwatering meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these pepper steak recipes will help you master this beloved dish with a variety of exciting flavors and twists.
Classic Pepper Steak Recipe
This traditional recipe brings out the best in beef and bell peppers with simple yet robust flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Marinate the Steak: Mix the sliced steak with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a wok or large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and bell peppers, stir-frying until they just start to soften. Remove from pan.
- Cook the Steak: Add remaining oil to the pan, increase heat to high, and add the marinated steak. Stir-fry until browned and nearly cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Broth: Add garlic to the steak, cooking for another minute before adding the beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the vegetables to the pan. Season with black pepper, and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice or noodles.
⭐ Note: To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of oyster sauce or a touch of sugar to the marinade for a balance of umami and sweetness.
Spicy Pepper Steak with Jalapeños
If you enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy version will spice up your dinner routine with jalapeños.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced thin
- 4 jalapeño peppers, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Instructions:
- Marinate Steak: Combine steak with soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and black pepper. Let sit for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Peppers: In a pan, heat oil, then add bell peppers and jalapeños. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Steak: Add the marinated steak to the pan. Stir-fry until steak is cooked to your liking.
- Finish and Serve: Once everything is cooked, serve immediately for maximum spiciness with rice or tortillas.
Pepper Steak with Asian Twist
Introducing an Asian-inspired version with flavors like ginger, soy, and sesame oil.
| Step | Ingredients | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 lb flank steak, soy sauce, rice vinegar | Marinate |
| 2 | 1 inch ginger, 2 cloves garlic, vegetable oil | Sauté |
| 3 | 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, onions | Stir-fry |
| 4 | Hoisin sauce, sesame oil | Season |
Conclusion
Pepper steak is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any palate. From the classic recipe that celebrates the harmony of beef, peppers, and black pepper to the spicy variant with jalapeños or the Asian-infused twist, there's a pepper steak for every occasion. Each version brings its own character to the table, ensuring that this dish remains a favorite for its flavor versatility and ease of preparation. So next time you're in the mood for something savory with a little kick, try one of these recipes to bring a piece of culinary delight into your home.
What type of steak is best for pepper steak?
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The best steaks for pepper steak are those that are tender and can be cut thin. Flank steak, sirloin, and skirt steak are popular choices due to their flavor and texture when cooked quickly at high heat.
Can I make pepper steak in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare pepper steak in advance. The flavors often deepen when reheated, but for the best texture, add peppers just before serving to keep them crisp.
How can I vary the spiciness of my pepper steak?
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Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili garlic sauce, or by using different types of peppers. For a milder version, skip the hot sauce altogether or use sweet bell peppers.
