Name: Quick and Flavorful Pepper Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional); 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons water; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

If you’re craving bold flavor in a quick, easy dinner, this Pepper Steak recipe is the answer. This delicious dish features tender strips of beef that are seared to perfection and tossed in a savory garlic-soy sauce, complemented by vibrant bell peppers. The result is a colorful, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re rushing home after a long day or meal prepping for the week ahead, this Pepper Steak is fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

This Asian-inspired stir-fry not only delivers on taste but also allows for flexibility in terms of ingredients, making it endlessly customizable. You can experiment with different types of vegetables or adjust the spice level to cater to your preferences. It’s one of those easy recipes that feels indulgent yet comes together in just 25 minutes. Pair it with steamed rice or a bed of veggies for a wholesome meal that fills you up without weighing you down.

So if you’re in the mood for a meal that packs a punch without the fuss, give this Pepper Steak recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak

This Pepper Steak recipe stands out for several reasons:

Speedy Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with Flavor: The marinade and sauces combine to create a rich, savory profile.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and colorful veggies, making it a healthy meal choice.
Customizable: Easily switch out proteins or vegetables to suit your taste.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors in the dish make it visually stunning.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this fantastic Pepper Steak recipe, it’s important to set the stage in your kitchen. Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out to streamline the cooking process. This dish cooks quickly, so having everything prepped in advance will help avoid any last-minute scrambles.

You’ll need a large skillet or a wok for stir-frying, as this will allow for even heat distribution and the best sear on your beef. Don’t forget a sharp knife for slicing your beef and vegetables thinly, which helps ensure they cook uniformly. A cutting board is essential for prepping your ingredients, and it’s a good idea to have a whisk on hand for mixing your sauces. Lastly, set a bowl aside for marinating the beef.

Ingredients

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional)
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons water
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinade the Beef

Begin by preparing the beef for the stir-fry. In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and toss it well to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat for an exquisite texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

While the beef marinates, take a separate bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water. Set this flavorful stir-fry sauce aside until you’re ready to use it. The mixture will serve as the base of your Pepper Steak and integrates all the components of the meal beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok on medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry the vegetables for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften but still have a bit of crunch. Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and set them aside. This step ensures they maintain their bright colors and vibrant flavors.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Next, increase the heat to high and add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. Sear the beef for about 2–3 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. If you have more beef than will fit comfortably, consider working in batches to achieve that perfect sear.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Once the beef has seared, quickly add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Stir them into the beef mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. These ingredients contribute a robust aroma that enhances the overall taste of your Pepper Steak.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return the stir-fried onions and bell peppers back to the pan with the beef. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the mixture and stir to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1–2 minutes, giving it time for the flavors to meld together deliciously.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Finally, stir in the cornstarch slurry you prepared earlier. This will help to thicken the sauce until it elegantly coats the beef and vegetables. Keep stirring and cooking for an additional minute or two until everything looks glossy and well-integrated.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Turn off the heat and prepare to serve your wonderful Pepper Steak. For an added touch, you can garnish with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, sesame seeds for crunch, or chopped green onions for freshness. Serve it hot over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein source.
Vegetables: Incorporate snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to add more color and nutrition.
Spices: Add a dash of sriracha or chili paste for an extra kick if you enjoy spicy dishes.

Cooking Notes

Be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain, which helps maintain tenderness when cooked.
Letting the beef marinate for the full time will significantly improve flavor and juiciness.
For the best sear, use high heat and ensure not to overcrowd the skillet.
Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences; this recipe is quite forgiving!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pepper Steak with fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice.
For a low-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Tips

Keep the ingredients handy for quick assembly during the cooking process.
Make the dish ahead of time and reheat for an easy meal prep option.
Omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Experiment with different sauces for the marinade to find your perfect flavor balance!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

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

Nutritional Information

Calories: 290
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 680mg
Sugar: 4g

FAQs

Can I make Pepper Steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving to maintain the texture.

What can I serve with Pepper Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even steamed vegetables for a lighter option.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this Pepper Steak gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that all other sauces are also gluten-free.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer less heat, simply omit the red pepper flakes and adjust the amount of freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Pepper Steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavors, it provides the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Not only is it customizable, allowing you to put your spin on it, but it also caters to various dietary needs with simple adjustments. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this tasty treat! Don’t forget to share your experiences, variations, or thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!