Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

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Introduction

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is the ultimate savory, satisfying dish that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Tender strips of beef are seared to perfection, then combined with colorful bell peppers and sweet, caramelized onions in a savory, slightly tangy sauce. The balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors makes this dish a standout—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal that’s sure to impress.

The first time I made this, I was blown away by how quickly it came together. The sizzling steak, with the vibrant bell peppers and onions, filled my kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. The sauce tied it all together, adding just the right amount of richness and depth. By the time it was served, it was clear that this would become a favorite in our household.

What I love most about Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or switch up the steak for chicken or shrimp if you prefer. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s both comforting and visually stunning. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Quick and easy meals
  • Family dinners
  • Stir-fries
  • Beef lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion will become your go-to dinner:

  • Tender Beef: The beef strips are perfectly seared, locking in their juices and flavors.
  • Flavorful Sauce: The savory sauce, made with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of ginger, enhances the beef and vegetables with rich umami.
  • Vibrant Vegetables: The bell peppers and onions not only add color to the dish, but their sweetness complements the savory beef.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish provides a balanced meal for the whole family.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion:

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Green onions for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Flank Steak or Sirloin: These cuts of beef are tender, flavorful, and quick to cook, making them perfect for stir-frying.
  • Bell Peppers and Onion: These vegetables add sweetness, crunch, and color to the dish, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
  • Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: These provide a savory umami flavor that complements the beef and vegetables.
  • Hoisin Sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing out the savory flavors.
  • Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients bring freshness and warmth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Slice the Beef: Thinly slice the flank steak or sirloin against the grain into bite-sized strips.
  2. Prep the Vegetables: Slice the onion and bell peppers into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Combine Sauces and Vinegar: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Make the Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce.

Cook the Beef:

  1. Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the Beef: Add the sliced beef to the pan in a single layer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, undisturbed, until it starts to brown. Flip the beef and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

  1. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine and Cook:

  1. Add the Beef Back: Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, stirring to combine.
  3. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the dish with sesame oil (if using) and garnish with green onions before serving.

How to Serve

  • With Rice: Serve the pepper steak over steamed white or brown rice to absorb the savory sauce.
  • With Noodles: Toss the pepper steak with cooked noodles for a delicious stir-fry noodle dish.
  • In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the beef and veggies in lettuce wraps.
  • With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve with a side of stir-fried broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Slice the Beef Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce better.
  • Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the bell peppers and onions slightly crunchy for texture and freshness.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-frying at high heat ensures the beef gets a nice sear and the vegetables stay crisp.
  • Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
  • Use Leftovers for Stir-Fry: If you have leftover beef, use it in a stir-fry with other vegetables or add it to a salad.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Pepper Steak: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
  2. Mongolian Pepper Steak: Add a bit of brown sugar and green onions to mimic the flavors of Mongolian beef.
  3. Garlic Butter Pepper Steak: Swap the stir-fry sauce for a rich garlic butter sauce for a decadent twist.
  4. Pepper Steak with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the stir-fry for an earthy flavor.
  5. Orange Pepper Steak: Replace the vinegar with fresh orange juice and add zest for a citrusy flavor.
  6. Pepper Steak with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory beef and peppers.
  7. Peanut Butter Pepper Steak: Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
  8. Keto Pepper Steak: Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
  9. Pepper Steak with Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli for added nutrients and texture.
  10. Thai Pepper Steak: Add a little fish sauce and lime juice for a Thai-inspired twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pepper steak in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.
  • Storage: Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain its flavor and texture.

Special Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Small Mixing Bowls
  • Stirring Spoon or Tongs
  • Meat Thermometer (optional, for precise cooking)

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
    Yes, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or round steak in place of flank steak. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly.
  2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
    It’s best to use fresh bell peppers and onions for texture, but you can use frozen vegetables if needed.
  3. Can I make this dish in advance?
    While it’s best served fresh, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
  4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
    Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
  5. What other vegetables can I add?
    You can add mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini for added variety.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions come together in a delicious, hearty sauce that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. It’s an easy, well-rounded meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Serve it over rice or noodles to complete the dish, creating a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy. The balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes makes this dish a guaranteed winner at the table, no matter the occasion.

I can’t wait to see how you put your twist on this classic recipe! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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