If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in no time, Pepper Steak is a fantastic choice. This dish features tender slices of beef cooked with bell peppers, onions, and a rich, savory sauce that’s slightly sweet and peppery. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s incredibly easy to make, yet full of bold flavors that feel like a restaurant-quality experience. Served over fluffy white rice, each bite is a perfect balance of savory beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and rich sauce that soaks beautifully into the rice, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
The magic of this pepper steak lies in its sauce. Made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sugar, the sauce has a depth of flavor that brings out the natural richness of the beef while enhancing the sweetness of the peppers. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight heat that’s not overpowering, but gives just the right amount of warmth to the dish. With bell peppers in a mix of colors, this pepper steak is not only flavorful but also visually vibrant, adding a touch of brightness to your plate.
What’s great about this dish is its versatility and simplicity. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick, and it’s easily customizable—swap out the bell peppers for your favorite vegetables, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Paired with white rice, this pepper steak is a meal that’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and guaranteed to please. Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ cup beef broth
For the Pepper Steak:
• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For Serving:
• Steamed white rice
• Fresh green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and beef broth until smooth. Set aside. 2. Season and Sear the Beef: Season the sliced beef with a pinch of salt and black pepper. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned on both sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. 3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the bell peppers and onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened but still crisp. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. 4. Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables. 5. Serve: Serve the pepper steak hot over a bed of steamed white rice, and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy the rich, flavorful combination of tender beef, savory sauce, and vibrant peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for tenderness.
How do I keep the vegetables crisp?
To keep the bell peppers and onions crisp-tender, sauté them briefly over high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a little extra soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture if you want extra heat.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or beef broth if needed.
This Pepper Steak is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. Served over white rice, it’s a meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion. With its blend of textures, colors, and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite for family dinners or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Enjoy each bite of this classic comfort food!
