Flavorful Pepper Steak with Bright Bell Peppers and Onions 🍖🌶️🧅
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a pepper steak recipe that combines tender beef with vibrant bell peppers and caramelized onions, you’re in the right place! This beef stir fry showcases bold flavors and colorful ingredients, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Its quick preparation and irresistible taste make it a must-try dish for any home cook eager to master a classic bell pepper steak. Whether you’re familiar with onion pepper beef or trying it for the first time, this dish guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite.
2. Ingredients Needed for the Pepper Steak Recipe
- 1 lb (450g) of sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil (for flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped scallions (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Bell Pepper Steak
Preparing the Beef
Start by thinly slicing the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the sliced beef to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
Cooking the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Stir-Frying the Beef
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef slices in a single layer, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Combining and Finalizing
Reduce heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the beef and vegetables to the skillet. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and a teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the flavors meld. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Pepper Steak
Allow the bell pepper steak to cool to room temperature before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
5. Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
This pepper steak recipe pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or jasmine rice for a balanced meal. You can also serve it over rice noodles or alongside a fresh green salad for added crunch. For an extra touch, add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle some sesame seeds before serving.
Explore more quick dinner ideas to complement your culinary repertoire!
6. Tips to Make Your Beef Stir Fry Extra Delicious
- Use a very hot skillet or wok to quickly sear the beef and lock in juices.
- Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce according to your taste preference.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar for a more complex flavor profile.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pepper Steak
Can I use chicken or tofu instead of beef?
Absolutely! For a chicken stir fry or vegetarian option, substitute with sliced chicken breast or firm tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What are the best bell peppers for this recipe?
Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for vibrant color and sweet flavor, but you can choose your favorites or what’s available.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your sauces are gluten-free to enjoy a gluten-free beef stir fry.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Having the right kitchen tools can make pepper steak with bell peppers and onions even easier. Check out these recommended tools:
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quickly roasting vegetables or reheating leftovers with less oil.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Invest in quality cookware to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – A versatile appliance that can be used for cooking plenty of dishes including stir-fries.
9. Conclusion
Mastering this pepper steak recipe opens up a world of flavorful, colorful, and healthy dinners. With tender beef, bright peppers, and savory sauces, this bell pepper steak is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish’s swift preparation process and delightful taste make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy a restaurant-quality onion pepper beef experience right in your own kitchen!
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Flavorful Pepper Steak with Bright Bell Peppers and Onions
A classic savory pepper steak stir-fry with tender beef slices, vibrant bell peppers, and onions cooked in a rich sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and black pepper. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Return beef to the pan. Add oyster sauce if using, and stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Notes
- Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce to taste for saltiness.
- Use sirloin or flank steak for tender results.
- Best served immediately for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Main Dish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg