Looking for a quick, delicious dinner packed with flavor and nutrition? This Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is the perfect solution. Juicy beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory, glossy sauce come together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, blending tender beef with the sweet crunch of colorful peppers and an umami-rich sauce. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect as a main course with steamed rice or noodles.
Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (500g) beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tbsp water)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, toss the steak pieces with 2 tbsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the beef is tender and juicy.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches, searing each side for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic, onion, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain slightly crunchy for a delightful texture contrast.
4. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Honey
- Cornstarch-water mixture
- Sesame oil
- Beef broth
The result is a smooth, glossy sauce that perfectly coats the beef and vegetables.
5. Combine and Cook
Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Add black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot over steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
- Cut the beef thinly. Thinner slices cook faster and absorb the marinade better.
- Cook in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the beef to steam instead of sear.
- Prep ahead. Have all ingredients chopped and ready to go, as stir-frying is a quick process.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with tofu or mushrooms.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and marinate the beef a day in advance. Cook just before serving for the best taste and texture.
2. What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and crunch.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Let the stir-fry cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
This Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is a must-try recipe that combines bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying texture. Perfect for weeknights or impressing dinner guests, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again!
