This pepper steak with bell peppers and onions is a delicious, savory stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced steak and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and water.
- Return the steak to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine.
- (Optional) For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir into the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutrients (per serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: High-quality lean beef protein
- Vitamin C: From bell peppers, supporting immunity
- Fiber: From onions, promoting digestive health
- Iron: For maintaining healthy red blood cells
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onions: A Culinary Delight
When it comes to quick, nutritious, and utterly satisfying meals, pepper steak with bell peppers and onions stands out as a true star. This dish combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or simply exploring your culinary creativity, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this dish special, why it’s worth trying, and how you can elevate it further.
The Essence of Pepper Steak
Pepper steak is a classic stir-fry dish that has been cherished across cultures, with origins tracing back to Chinese-American cuisine. Its hallmark lies in the harmonious balance of tender meat, colorful bell peppers, and a robust sauce that ties the ingredients together. The dish’s versatility allows it to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
At its core, pepper steak showcases flank steak, a cut of beef known for its rich flavor and lean profile. Sliced thinly, it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the accompanying sauce beautifully. Bell peppers, available in an array of vibrant colors, not only add visual appeal but also bring a subtle sweetness and a burst of nutrients. Red onions contribute a mild sharpness that complements the dish’s overall profile.
Why This Recipe Shines
- Quick and Easy Preparation
With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those with busy schedules. The simplicity of the preparation process makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs. - Nutritional Benefits
- High-Quality Protein: The lean beef provides essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vitamin C Boost: Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, a key nutrient for immunity and skin health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: The combination of onions, garlic, and bell peppers delivers antioxidants that fight inflammation and support overall well-being.
- Balanced Meal: When paired with rice or noodles, this dish offers a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
- Versatility
This recipe can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary requirements. Swap beef for chicken, tofu, or tempeh for a variation. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini to add your personal touch.
Tips for the Perfect Pepper Steak
To make your pepper steak truly stand out, consider these helpful tips:
- Marinate the Beef: For extra flavor and tenderness, marinate the beef in soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to quickly sear the meat and vegetables, locking in their flavors and textures.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, firm bell peppers and onions to maintain the dish’s vibrant colors and crisp texture.
- Control the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry step. For a lighter finish, add a splash of broth or water.
A Flavorful Sauce: The Heart of the Dish
The sauce is the soul of pepper steak, tying all the elements together with its umami-rich profile. Soy sauce and oyster sauce form the base, lending a savory depth that’s balanced by the slight sweetness of brown sugar. A hint of black pepper adds a gentle kick, while garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic allure. This combination ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
How to Serve and Pair
Pepper steak with bell peppers and onions is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed Rice: The most classic choice, rice soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Noodles: From chow mein to egg noodles, the dish transforms into a satisfying noodle stir-fry.
- Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve the dish over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, pepper steak fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its vibrant presentation and comforting flavors appeal to a wide audience, making it a crowd-pleaser. The quick preparation also makes it an excellent option for meal prep, as the dish reheats well without losing its texture or flavor.
Conclusion
Pepper steak with bell peppers and onions is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and nutritional goodness. With its quick preparation, adaptability, and delightful taste, this dish deserves a place in your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, it promises to deliver satisfaction every time.
So, why wait? Dive into the world of pepper steak and explore the endless possibilities this dish has to offer. Experiment with ingredients, pair it with your favorite sides, and savor the joy of creating a meal that’s as enjoyable to cook as it is to eat.
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Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onions
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This pepper steak with bell peppers and onions is a delicious, savory stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced steak and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and water.
- Return the steak to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine.
- (Optional) For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir into the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes