Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? In this post, I'll show you how to make a mouth-watering pepper steak with bell peppers and onions. This dish bursts with flavor and is easy to prepare. From selecting the right ingredients to cooking tips for the juiciest steak, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and make your next meal a true delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and ginger creates a deliciously rich flavor that enhances the steak.
- Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and fresh cilantro make this dish visually appealing.
- Versatile Serving: Serve it over jasmine rice or even noodles for a delightful meal that suits your preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Pepper Steak
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Marinade Components
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For this pepper steak dish, you must focus on the fresh ingredients. The flank steak gives a rich flavor. The bell peppers add a sweet crunch. The onion provides a nice touch of sweetness. This combination creates a colorful and tasty meal.
Marinating the steak is key. The soy sauce and oyster sauce add depth. The cornstarch helps create a tender texture. A bit of salt and pepper enhances the flavor.
When serving, pair the dish with jasmine rice. It soaks up the sauce well. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
First, you need to marinate the steak. Take 1 pound of flank steak and slice it thinly against the grain. This helps it stay tender. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix it well. Let the steak sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. This time allows the flavors to soak in.
Cooking the Vegetables
While the steak marinates, it's time to cook the veggies. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 large onion, sliced thinly. Sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes until it softens. Then, add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 sliced green bell pepper. Stir-fry these for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a nice crunch.
Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the skillet. Cook for another minute until you smell those wonderful aromas.
Combining Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Remove the cooked veggies from the pan and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the marinated steak in a single layer. Sear it for about 2-3 minutes until it has a nice brown crust. Then, add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet with the steak. Stir everything together for 2 more minutes. Make sure the steak is heated through and well mixed with the veggies. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve your pepper steak over cooked jasmine rice. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a lovely touch. Enjoy the colors and flavors in this delightful dish!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Sear
To get a great sear on your steak, heat your skillet well. Use medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, place the marinated steak in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan; this helps form a nice brown crust. Sear for about 2-3 minutes. Flip only once. This way, you lock in the juices and flavor.
Enhancing Flavors with Seasoning
Seasoning is key for a tasty dish. Use soy sauce and oyster sauce in the marinade. They add depth and umami. After cooking, taste your dish. If it needs more flavor, sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper. A pinch of fresh ginger also boosts flavor. Don't skip the garlic; it brings warmth and aroma.
Presentation Ideas
For a stunning presentation, serve your pepper steak in shallow bowls. This allows the bright colors of the bell peppers and the green cilantro to shine. Place a generous scoop of jasmine rice at the bottom. Then, top it with the pepper steak mix. It looks inviting and appetizing, making your meal special.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the steak to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor, but for even better results, marinate it for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- High Heat is Key: Searing the steak over high heat ensures a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak.
- Vegetable Crunch: To maintain the vibrant color and crunch of the bell peppers, avoid overcooking them. They should be tender yet still have some bite.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Adding fresh cilantro at the end not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Variations
Adding Different Vegetables
You can make pepper steak your own by adding different veggies. Try mushrooms for an earthy taste. Zucchini adds a nice crunch, too. Broccoli or snap peas bring extra color and nutrients. Simply slice them thin and add them when cooking the onions and peppers. This keeps the dish fresh and exciting.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want to turn up the heat? Add fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes. For a milder taste, you can skip the spicy ingredients. You can also use sweet bell peppers only, making it kid-friendly. Adjust the spice to match your family’s taste buds.
Alternative Sauces
Soy sauce and oyster sauce give great flavor, but you can switch things up. Try teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist. Hoisin sauce adds depth and richness. If you love heat, a splash of sriracha can wake up your dish. Each sauce will change the flavor, so feel free to experiment.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your pepper steak fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors intact and prevents spoilage.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it. Cover the dish and heat in short bursts for about 2-3 minutes. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Freezing Tips
For longer storage, freeze the leftovers. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This will help maintain its taste and texture.
FAQs
What is the best cut of beef for pepper steak?
The best cut for pepper steak is flank steak. It has great flavor and tenderness. Flank steak cooks quickly, making it perfect for stir-frying. When you slice it against the grain, it becomes even more tender. You can also use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. Both cuts have a nice flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pepper steak ahead of time. You can marinate the beef a few hours before cooking. This helps the meat soak up the flavors. You can also cook the dish and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you are ready to eat. For best results, enjoy it within three days.
What sides pair well with pepper steak?
Pepper steak goes well with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- Stir-fried vegetables
- A fresh salad
These sides balance the rich flavors of the steak and add more texture to your meal.
Pepper steak is a simple yet fabulous dish. We covered its key ingredients, marinade ideas, and how to serve it. I walked you through each step, from preparing the steak to cooking the veggies. With tips for a perfect sear and flavor boosts, you can create a great meal. Explore variations and know how to store any leftovers. Now, get started and enjoy making pepper steak your own!
