Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Name: Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade); 1 tbsp cornstarch (for marinade); 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce (for sauce); 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry); 1/4 cup beef broth or water; 1 tsp sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Isabella

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Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion a savory and hearty stir-fry featuring tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and onions coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The beef turns out tender and flavorful, while the vibrant bell peppers and onion add a satisfying crunch. The rich, umami-packed sauce ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s a versatile meal that you can whip up in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 red bell pepper, sliced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 large onion, sliced

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

1/4 cup beef broth or water

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Toss the beef slices with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. Let this marinate for 15 minutes to tenderize and infuse the beef with flavor.

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the bell peppers and onion for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Return the beef to the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Mix well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef to suit your preference.

Vegetable Additions: Include broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra variety and nutrition.

Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy version.

Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy on its own for a lower-carb meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the skillet retains the texture of the peppers better.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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FAQs

How do I slice the beef thinly for stir-frying?

To slice the beef thinly, I recommend partially freezing it for about 20-30 minutes. This firms up the meat, making it easier to cut into uniform slices.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance by slicing the beef and vegetables and mixing the sauce. Store them separately in the fridge and stir-fry just before serving.

What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Flank steak or sirloin are great options because they are tender and cook quickly. Just be sure to slice against the grain for the best texture.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Fresh bell peppers are best for their crisp texture, but frozen ones can be used in a pinch. Just be aware they may release more moisture during cooking.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

The cornstarch slurry is the key to thickening the sauce. Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the skillet to avoid lumps.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors with vibrant, fresh ingredients. It’s quick to make, highly customizable, and ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and enjoy the taste of homemade takeout.

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