Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy schedules.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the bell peppers and onions.
Versatile: Pairs well with rice, noodles, or can be enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound beef steak (such as sirloin or flank), thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup beef broth or water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef is marinating, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Combine Ingredients: Once the beef is cooked, return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Sauce: Pour in the beef broth or water, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the pepper steak hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili pepper during the cooking process for added heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with firm tofu or a medley of mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Different Proteins: Substitute beef with chicken or shrimp to suit your preference.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, chicken or shrimp can be used as alternatives to beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the skillet during the simmering step, stirring until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef?

Marinating the beef enhances its flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, even a brief 10-minute marination can be beneficial.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can slice the vegetables and marinate the beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook when ready to serve.

What type of rice pairs best with pepper steak?

Steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice are excellent choices to serve with pepper steak.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking. High heat and quick cooking help maintain tenderness.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Snow peas, broccoli florets, or sliced carrots make great additions to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure that the oyster sauce (or its substitute) is also gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?

The standard recipe is not spicy. To add heat, include red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers as desired.

Conclusion

Pepper steak with bell peppers and onion is a flavorful and satisfying dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory sauce make this a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether served with rice, noodles, or on its own, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy a homemade take on a takeout classic!