Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is a classic, flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and onions in a savory sauce. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights because it cooks quickly and is packed with flavor. The secret to perfecting this dish lies in the sauce—a balanced blend of soy sauce, beef broth, and a hint of oyster sauce, which gives it a rich, umami depth. Serve this Pepper Steak Stir-Fry over a bed of rice for a complete, satisfying meal that’s far better than takeout. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Cooked rice (for serving)
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.
- Cut the bell peppers and onion into thin slices, and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re browned but not fully cooked through.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce and Combine
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce (if using), and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the steak back to the skillet along with the sauce mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pepper steak stir-fry over a bed of warm rice.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Sodium | 900 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients and portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I substitute the flank steak with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, like sirloin or skirt steak. You could also make this dish with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q2: Do I need oyster sauce?
Oyster sauce adds a unique depth to the dish, but you can skip it if you don’t have it or want to keep the dish simpler. Hoisin sauce or a bit of Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitute if needed.
Q3: Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add a teaspoon of chili flakes, a sliced red chili, or a dash of Sriracha for a bit of heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Q4: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen bell peppers work well if you don’t have fresh ones. Be sure to thaw and pat them dry to prevent extra moisture from affecting the sauce.
Q5: What’s the best way to ensure the beef is tender?
Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, as this helps prevent toughness. Cooking the steak over high heat for a short time also keeps it tender.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying over high heat is key to achieving a nice sear on the beef and keeping the vegetables crisp-tender.
- Slice the Beef Thinly: Thinner slices cook faster and absorb the flavors of the sauce better. Cut against the grain to ensure a tender bite.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the beef in batches, if necessary, prevents it from steaming and helps it brown nicely.
- Experiment with Vegetables: You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots to make the stir-fry more colorful and nutritious.
- Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch slurry. For a thinner sauce, add a little extra beef broth.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture of the beef and vegetables.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pepper steak stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat in a skillet on medium-low heat until warmed through. This method helps maintain the texture of the meat and vegetables. Microwaving is also an option, but the beef may lose some of its tenderness.
Conclusion
This Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice for those looking for a quick, flavorful meal with fresh ingredients. With tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this dish has a great balance of flavors and textures that will make it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe is versatile and customizable to suit your tastes. Serve it over rice for a complete, satisfying meal, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of home.