Every time I make this Best Ever Pepper Steak, it brings back such fond memories of family dinners around our old wooden table in the kitchen. The aroma of the sizzling beef and fresh vegetables fills the air, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. I remember my mom making this dish for us, and it was always a hit! The combination of juicy beef with vibrant peppers stirred in a rich sauce is something every family should experience. I can guarantee that once you try this dish, it’ll soon become a cherished recipe in your home too.
How to Make Best Ever Pepper Steak
Ingredients:
Let’s gather the ingredients first. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin, thinly sliced: This is the star of the show! You want a cut that is tender and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This adds a wonderful umami flavor that brings the beef and vegetables to life.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: A little thickener to help create that luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: This is for sautéing. You want a high smoke point oil for that perfect sear.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced: I love using red or yellow for a pop of color and sweetness.
- 1 onion, sliced: This adds lovely flavor and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic base.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: This keeps everything moist and adds a depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: A little secret ingredient that enhances the dish tremendously.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Always essential for seasoning.
- 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish: These add a fresh touch at the end.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: These are optional but give a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
Personal note: I love adding a splash of fresh lime juice right before serving—it adds such a vibrant flavor!
Cooking Steps
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Marinate the Beef: Start by placing the thinly sliced beef sirloin in a bowl. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the cornstarch over. Mix well to coat the beef thoroughly. This is an important step as it not only flavors the meat but also helps it stay juicy. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
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Heat Up the Skillet: While the beef is marinating, let’s warm things up! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’re looking for that perfect sizzle when the beef hits the pan.
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Cook the Beef: Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nicely browned. You’ll want it to have a bit of a sear! Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, we’ll bring it back soon.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. This is where the magic happens! Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. The vibrant colors and smell will brighten your kitchen!
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Combine and Cook: Bring the browned beef back to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the beef and veggies.
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Season: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to tailor the dish to your liking!
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Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle on the chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
Why I Love Making This Dish
Best Ever Pepper Steak holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and a memory-maker. Every time my family gathers around the table, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying this dish, I am reminded of the ties that bind us. Cooking this meal allows me to pass down traditions and create new memories, which makes it all the more special.
What You’ll Need
For this dish, you don’t need any fancy equipment. Just a sturdy skillet and a couple of bowls will do. Having a good knife is also helpful for slicing the beef and veggies. I recommend using a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the skillet: First, make sure your skillet is hot enough—like I said, this is key for that perfect sear!
- Marinate the beef: This step is essential for flavor and tenderness.
- Cook the beef: Don’t rush; let the beef brown before removing it!
- Sauté the veggies: Stir things up and enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
- Combine and finish: Let everything meld together for a few moments—this is where the flavors come alive.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If you add too much beef at once, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfect doneness, aim for medium-rare beef at around 135°F.
- Let the sauce thicken: Patience is key. Allow it to bubble a little longer for a richer sauce.
- Fresh herbs: Don’t shy away from throwing in a bit of fresh parsley or cilantro at the end—this adds a beautiful touch!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Best Ever Pepper Steak pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly! If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, serve it with stir-fried noodles or even roasted potatoes. A fresh salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the dish well, bringing a refreshing contrast to the meaty flavors.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will with how delicious this is!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend doing it on the stovetop for the best results. Just warm it over medium heat until everything is heated through again.
FAQ Section
Can I use another cut of beef?
Sure! You can use flank steak or ribeye if you prefer. Just remember, the more tender the cut, the better the result!
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
Not a problem! You can skip it, but I highly recommend incorporating it if you can. It truly elevates the dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots would all be lovely additions.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This meal holds up well, making it perfect for meal prep during the week. Just keep the rice separate until you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Pepper Steak has become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it. The blend of flavors and the ease of preparation make this dish a winner. I know your family will ask for seconds, just like mine does every time! It’s packed with comfort and joy, and I’m so thrilled to share it with you. Let me know how it turns out for you—your feedback is always a joy to hear! Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!