Are you in the mood for a delightful and simple meal that packs a flavorful punch? Look no further than this exquisite Pepper Steak recipe. This dish beautifully combines juicy flank steak with crisp bell peppers, all coated in a delicious sauce that melds the flavors into a savory sensation that is truly unforgettable. As a perfect companion for your busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to prepare and provides a nutritious and satisfying dinner option.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that bursts with flavor and offers a savory taste that appeals to all ages. Whether you choose to serve it over a bed of rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own, this Pepper Steak is bound to become a new favorite in your household. Moreover, with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this is a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak

Adding this recipe to your culinary repertoire will surely result in an eternal family favorite. Here’s why you might love it:

Quick & Easy: Comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Flavor-Packed: Juicy flank steak and sweet bell peppers marinated in an umami-packed sauce.
Versatile: Pair it with rice, noodles, or enjoy as-is.
Nutritious: Provides a balanced mix of proteins and vegetables.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, ensure your kitchen is adequately prepped. Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools: a sharp knife, cutting board, small mixing bowl, and a large skillet are essential for this recipe. A good-quality skillet will ensure even cooking and browning of the steak. Having all ingredients pre-measured and utensils ready will streamline the cooking process, making it even faster and more stress-free.

If you’re making the dish over a steamy bed of jasmine rice or al-dente noodles, start cooking these first, so everything finishes simultaneously. A small whisk can be handy for mixing the sauce to ensure all flavors are well-blended. Preparing the ingredients by slicing the flank steak thinly and evenly can make or break this recipe’s consistency and success.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather these fresh and straightforward ingredients:

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 bell peppers, sliced (red, green, or a mix)
1 small onion, sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Magic Sauce

Start by creating the marinade that gives this dish its distinctive flavor. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until these mix into a smooth sauce with a delightful aroma, ready to enhance your steak and vegetables.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the half-inch thin flank steak slices in a single layer and let them sizzle for 3-4 minutes. Turn the slices occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides, sealing in the juices.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the steak is seared to your satisfaction, introduce the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook and stir intermittently for about 3-4 minutes. You want your veggies slightly tender while maintaining a crisp bite, adding texture and sweetness to your dish.

Step 4: Saucy Finish

It’s time to combine layers of flavor with the prepared sauce. Pour the savory mixture over steak and vegetables. Stir well to coat the ingredients, then let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly, clinging beautifully to the steak and vegetables for a rich taste with each bite.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Finally, garnish your vibrant Pepper Steak with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve straight from the skillet over rice, noodles, or enjoy alone to relish every flavor-filled bite.

Variations

Protein: Swap flank steak with chicken breast or tofu for different tastes and dietary preferences.
Vegetables: Add broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
Spices: Amp up the heat with a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

Ensure steak slices are even in thickness for consistent cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for better browning.

Serving Suggestions

For a comforting meal, serve over steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles.
Pair with a crisp side salad for a balanced meal.

Tips

For easier slicing, freeze flank steak for 30 minutes before cutting.
Adjust seasoning to taste; more soy sauce adds saltiness, honey for sweetness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 30g per serving
Sodium: 600mg per serving

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Pepper Steak?

Flank steak is recommended due to its tenderness when sliced thin, but sirloin or flat iron are also good alternatives.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce can spice things up nicely for those who enjoy heat.

Can I prepare Pepper Steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the steak and chop the vegetables in advance, keeping them refrigerated in an airtight container. Mix the sauce and store it separately.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet over low heat, or swiftly tossed into a stir-fry for a refreshing meal.

Conclusion

The Pepper Steak is a dish packed with flavor and versatility, perfect for any dinner occasion. It is a simple yet delicious answer to the question, “What’s for dinner?” With a delightful blend of textures and flavors, it suits any palate. Don’t forget to explore the variations and serving suggestions to keep the dish enticing every time you make it. We encourage readers to leave comments with their favorite variations or serving styles, and to share this recipe with family and friends for a taste of cooking happiness everyone will enjoy.