Pepper steak with bell peppers and onion is a colorful and tasty dish. The tender beef pairs perfectly with the crispy veggies for a delightful meal. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Honestly, I love how fast this comes together—perfect for busy nights! Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ve got yourself a winner that the whole family will enjoy. 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or flank steak works well here. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, round steak is a good choice too. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best tenderness.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors, like red, green, and yellow for variety. If you’re out of fresh peppers, you can use frozen bell peppers. The flavor might be slightly different but still tasty.
Onion: A regular onion does the job well, but you can also use red onion for a slightly sweeter taste. If you’re avoiding onions, skip them or replace with sautéed mushrooms for a different texture.
Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for that savory flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you’re allergic to shellfish, skip the oyster sauce or use a little more soy sauce mixed with a touch of vinegar for depth.
How Do I Ensure the Steak Stays Tender?
Getting tender steak is all about how you cook it. Here’s how:
- Always slice your steak against the grain to make it easier to chew. Look for the lines in the meat and cut across them.
- Don’t overcook the meat! Just sear it for 2-3 minutes on high heat until it’s browned but still pink inside. It will continue to cook when you add it back with the veggies.
- If you have time, marinate your steak in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances flavor and tenderness!
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a delicious pepper steak that’s perfectly tender and packed with flavor!
How to Make Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp ground black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pepper steak recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking, making a total of around 20-25 minutes. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), cornstarch, beef broth (or water), sugar, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth. Set this aside; it will be your tasty sauce!
2. Sear the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced steak and sear it quickly for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned but still tender. Be careful to not overcook it. Once ready, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers, and stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still have some crunch. Add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Combine and Thicken:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the veggies. Take the sauce mixture you prepared earlier, give it a quick stir, and pour it over the steak and veggies. Stir everything well to coat it evenly and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
5. Final Touches:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. It should be flavorful and just right!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if you like. Serve the pepper steak hot over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy your colorful and flavorful pepper steak with bell peppers and onion!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak is preferred for its tenderness, you can also use ribeye or round steak. Just ensure they are sliced thinly against the grain for the best texture.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the veggies! Snap peas, broccoli, or carrots can be great additions. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything remains crisp yet tender.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari. Additionally, make sure to check the ingredients of the oyster sauce and hoisin sauce or find gluten-free versions.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
