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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the Beef: Begin by slicing the flank steak or sirloin thinly, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness. Thin slices allow the beef to cook quickly and evenly.
- Marinate the Beef: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Add the beef slices and toss to coat. Let the beef marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients—this will help tenderize the meat and add flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Stir-Fry the Peppers and Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften but still have a bit of crispness. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and just cooked through. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet.
- Combine with Vegetables: Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Finish with Sesame Oil: For added flavor, drizzle the sesame oil over the pepper steak right before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Over Rice: Spoon the pepper steak over a bed of steamed white rice or brown rice.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best-Ever Pepper Steak
- Cut the Beef Against the Grain: To achieve tender slices of beef, always slice against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction the muscle fibers run, which breaks them down and results in a more tender bite.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best with high heat, allowing the meat and vegetables to sear quickly without losing moisture. This ensures that the beef remains tender and the vegetables maintain their crispness.
- Customize the Vegetables: While bell peppers are the traditional choice, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, snow peas, or broccoli for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Beef and Broccoli Pepper Steak: Swap out one of the bell peppers for steamed broccoli florets for a heartier dish.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the pepper steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Chicken or Tofu Option: Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or cubed tofu for a different protein option.
What to Serve with Pepper Steak
- Steamed Rice: Traditional white or brown rice is the perfect base for soaking up the savory sauce of the pepper steak.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Complement the dish with stir-fried green beans, bok choy, or even baby corn.
- Asian-Inspired Salad: A light cucumber and carrot salad with rice vinegar dressing pairs well with the rich flavors of pepper steak.
Conclusion
Pepper Steak is a classic stir-fry dish that is both flavorful and quick to make. With tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich savory sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Best-Ever Pepper Steak recipe will become a favorite in your meal rotation. Serve it over rice, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s ready in minutes!