Ah, pepper steak! This is a classic stir-fry dish—thinly sliced beef cooked with bell peppers, onions, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect over rice or noodles. Here’s a detailed, foolproof method:
Pepper Steak Recipe
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2–3 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into thin wedges
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil
For the sauce:
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, adds richness)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
Instructions
1. Prep the beef:
- Slice beef thinly against the grain (this keeps it tender).
- Optional: marinate 10–15 minutes in 1 tbsp soy sauce and ½ tsp cornstarch for extra tenderness.
2. Make the sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Cook the beef:
- Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add beef in a single layer and sear 2–3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the vegetables:
- Add remaining oil if needed.
- Stir-fry onions and bell peppers 3–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add garlic and stir 30 seconds more.
5. Combine and finish:
- Return beef to the pan.
- Pour in the sauce.
- Stir-fry 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and beef is cooked through.
6. Serve:
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- High heat is key: Stir-frying fast prevents beef from getting tough.
- Slice against the grain: Makes even cheaper cuts tender.
- Sauce consistency: If too thick, add a splash of water; if too thin, cook a bit longer.
- Optional add-ins: Mushrooms, snow peas, or broccoli can be added for extra veggies.
If you want, I can also give a “restaurant-style pepper steak” version with caramelized peppers, extra black pepper kick, and a glossy, silky sauce—it’s like takeout at home. Do you want me to do that?
