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Pepper Steak

Pepper Steak

A quick and easy Pepper Steak recipe featuring tender beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a rich peppery sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this Asian-inspired dish balances spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a healthy, family-friendly, and adaptable option perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 300400g flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain into strips
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, minced

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, plus extra to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice beef thinly against the grain into strips. Slice bell peppers and onions into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Mince garlic and ginger finely to maximize their flavor release during cooking.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce (or gluten-free substitute), beef broth or water, minced garlic, minced ginger, sugar, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
  3. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until browned but still tender, then remove and set aside to prevent steaming.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add additional oil if needed. Stir-fry sliced onions and bell peppers until crisp-tender, preserving their bright colors and fresh crunch.
  5. Combine and Thicken: Return the beef to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir the cornstarch slurry and add it to the pan, cooking for about a minute until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the meat and vegetables.
  6. Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds if desired. Pair with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Slice beef thinly to ensure quick, tender cooking.
  • Marinate beef briefly (about 15 minutes) in soy sauce and black pepper for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
  • Cook beef in batches to avoid steaming and achieve a proper sear.
  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for a sharp, aromatic spice.
  • Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should remain crisp to contrast the tender beef.
  • Prepare the sauce ahead of time to speed up the cooking process and maintain consistent flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pepper Steak, Beef Stir-Fry, Quick Dinner, Asian Beef Recipe, Gluten-Free Dinner, Healthy Stir-Fry, Weeknight Meal