Description
Classic Pepper Steak Recipe
Ingredients:
1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce)
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tsp sesame oil
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Steamed rice for serving
Instructions:
Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, mix sliced beef, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil.
Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from pan.
Cook the Veggies:
In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp oil.
Stir-fry bell peppers and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
Combine & Simmer:
Return the beef to the pan.
Pour in the sauce and stir well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve hot over steamed rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
#PepperSteak #StirFry #QuickDinner
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect pepper steak. First, ensure your flank steak is partially frozen for 15 minutes before slicing; this makes thin, even slices against the grain much easier. For the marinade, thoroughly coat the beef in the soy sauce and cornstarch mixture—this is crucial for tenderizing and creating a velvety texture. While it rests, prepare all your vegetables and mix the sauce in a bowl. When cooking, preheat your pan or wok until it’s very hot before adding the oil to prevent sticking. Sear the beef in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid steaming. After removing the beef, add the peppers and garlic, stir-frying just until they begin to soften but remain crisp-tender. Finally, combine everything with the sauce, letting it bubble until it coats the back of a spoon.
Serving Suggestions
While steamed white rice is the classic accompaniment, this versatile dish pairs wonderfully with many sides. For a lower-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also spoon it into crisp lettuce cups for a fresh, hands-on meal. To round out the dinner, consider simple sides like a cucumber salad, egg drop soup, or steamed broccoli with a drizzle of sesame oil.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this dish by: 1) Slicing and marinating the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. 2) Whisking together the savory sauce. 3) Quickly searing the beef in a hot pan and setting it aside. 4) Stir-frying the bell peppers and garlic. 5) Combining everything back in the pan with the sauce and simmering until glossy and thickened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives. For the most tender result, always slice thinly against the grain.
How can I make this gluten-free? Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce and hoisin sauce are gluten-free brands.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Onions, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots are great additions. Add harder vegetables like carrots earlier in the stir-fry process.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Is there a substitute for oyster sauce? For a vegetarian version, you can use more hoisin sauce or a mushroom-based stir-fry sauce, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once steams it instead of searing it, leading to grey, tough meat. Cook in batches.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Bell peppers should retain a slight crunch. Stir-fry them just until vibrant and slightly softened.
- Skipping the Cornstarch in the Marinade: This step is essential for creating a protective coating that seals in juices and helps thicken the final sauce.
- Using a Cold Pan: Always ensure your pan is properly preheated before adding oil and ingredients for the best sear and to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This classic pepper steak recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients and techniques can create a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes. The key lies in the quick marinade, the hot-and-fast stir-fry method, and the perfectly balanced savory-sweet sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!