Are you in the mood for a hearty, quick, and easy dinner that also boasts incredible flavor? If so, then this Pepper Steak Recipe is exactly what you need. Not only does it fit perfectly into busy schedules, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create a meal that your taste buds will thank you for, and your family will keep asking for more.
Ingredients for Pepper Steak
- Steak: Choose a tender cut like flank, sirloin, or ribeye. Approximately 1 lb (450g)
- Green Bell Peppers: 2 large, sliced
- Red Bell Peppers: 2 large, sliced
- Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Beef Broth: 1/2 cup
- Cornstarch: 2 teaspoons
- Vegetable or Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepared. This is the key to a quick and seamless cooking process.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Prep work can make or break this easy pepper steak recipe:
- Slice the Steak: Cut the steak across the grain into thin strips. This ensures tenderness when cooked quickly.
- Slice the Vegetables: Slice bell peppers and onion into thin strips. The even thickness helps in consistent cooking.
- Mince the Garlic: This adds a burst of flavor when it hits the hot oil.
💡 Note: Keep an eye on the thickness of your steak slices. The thinner, the quicker they'll cook.
Cooking the Pepper Steak
1. Heat the Oil
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
2. Brown the Steak
Season the steak with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the steak on all sides, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once browned, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the onion, cooking until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the bell peppers, cooking until they start to soften but still retain some crunch, another 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until the cornstarch dissolves. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring until it thickens into a glossy sauce. Bring it to a simmer.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked steak to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables and sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the steak is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
🔔 Note: If your sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to thin it out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your pepper steak over a bed of fluffy white rice, or for a healthier twist, try it with brown or cauliflower rice. Here are some options:
- White Rice: Classic and comforting.
- Brown Rice: A more nutritious option.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative.
- Noodles: Udon or lo mein noodles pair beautifully with the thick sauce.
Remember to garnish with fresh herbs or scallions for an extra pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a delightful crunch.
Variations
This pepper steak recipe is versatile. Here are some variations:
- Different Cuts of Meat: Try it with other cuts like skirt steak or even beef tenderloin for a different texture.
- Addition of Veggies: Include baby corn, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, add a teaspoon of sambal oelek or red pepper flakes during the cooking of the vegetables.
- Use Different Sauces: Swap out soy sauce with hoisin, oyster sauce, or even teriyaki for varied flavors.
As you wrap up this delicious meal, remember that quick and easy dinners don't have to sacrifice flavor. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you've created a dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this pepper steak is a versatile recipe that proves you can have taste, texture, and nutrition in one single, steaming plate of food. Enjoy the process, savor the result, and keep exploring the world of flavors with this as your stepping stone into Asian-inspired cuisine.
Can I use frozen bell peppers instead of fresh?
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Yes, you can. However, ensure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, which is naturally gluten-free. Also, check that your beef broth is also gluten-free.
What are other protein options besides beef?
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Chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu can be used instead of beef. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they’re cooked through without overcooking.
Can this pepper steak be frozen?
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Yes, it can. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a bit of liquid to prevent drying out.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
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You can increase the amount of cornstarch or simmer the sauce longer to reduce its liquid content. Alternatively, you could use a bit of flour, but add it gradually while whisking to avoid lumps.
