Pepper Steak Stir Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Favorite

Pepper Steak Stir Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Favorite

If you’re searching for a meal that’s quick, colorful, and packed with flavor, look no further than this Pepper Steak Stir Fry. Juicy strips of beef, sautéed to perfection, are tossed with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet stir fry sauce. It’s the ideal weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality dish, but is easy enough to whip up in 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and the savory stir fry sauce creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
2. Fast and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
3. Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust the sauce to your taste preferences.
4. Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying.

The Secret to Tender Beef

For a melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s essential to slice the beef thinly against the grain. Additionally, a quick marinade of soy sauce and cornstarch helps tenderize the meat while adding flavor. This step ensures the beef stays juicy and tender even after cooking at high heat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pepper Steak Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Season the sliced steak with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant in color.

Step 3: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil (if using). Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir fry sauce over everything and toss to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pepper Steak Stir Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for an added touch of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak Stir Fry

1. Prep Everything Beforehand: Stir fries cook quickly, so have all your ingredients sliced, measured, and ready to go.
2. High Heat is Key: Use high heat for a quick sear on the beef and to maintain the vibrant color and crispness of the vegetables.
3. Adjust the Heat: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Make it Your Own: Incorporate mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for extra variety and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This Pepper Steak Stir Fry pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Noodles: Add a garlicky twist for an indulgent pairing.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.