Pepper Steak Recipe: How to make Pepper Steak?

Pepper steak is a savory dish that perfectly balances tender strips of beef with vibrant bell peppers and a flavorful sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture, making it a delightful choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of fresh vegetables and protein-rich beef not only pleases the palate but also provides a nutritious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Pepper Steak:

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (brown sugar preferred)
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

For Serving:

• Cooked rice or noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
• Steamed vegetables (like broccoli or snap peas) on the side

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Beef: Begin by slicing the flank steak or sirloin against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help ensure the meat remains tender.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Thinly slice the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and ginger if using.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and sugar. Mix well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 2 minutes. This will help create a nice brown crust.
3. Stir-Fry: After 2 minutes, stir the beef and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
3. Combine: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. Add Broth and Sauce: Pour in the beef broth (or water) and oyster sauce (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the pepper steak over a bed of rice or noodles.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair your pepper steak with steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles for a filling meal.
• Add a side of sautéed broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• For a refreshing drink, consider serving with iced green tea or a light, fruity white wine.

Nutritional Information:

Pepper steak is a well-balanced dish that offers numerous nutritional benefits:

• Protein: The beef provides a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
• Low in Fat: Using lean cuts of beef and minimal oil helps keep the dish lower in fat while still being flavorful.
• Customizable: You can easily add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient content.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that any additional sauces you use are gluten-free.

3. Can I make pepper steak ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just stir-fry them together when ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you prefer not to use oyster sauce, you can replace it with hoisin sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor or simply omit it altogether.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. Adjust to your desired spice level.

This pepper steak recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for any home cook looking to whip up a delicious meal in no time. Enjoy your culinary adventure!