Ad
Every time I whip up this Best Pepper Steak Ever, I’m transported back to cozy family dinners filled with laughter and warm conversations. The sizzling sound of beef cooking mingled with the aroma of peppers and onions makes my heart swell with nostalgia. It reminds me of Sunday afternoons spent gathered around the dinner table, savoring every bite and sharing stories. I promise you, the moment you try this recipe, you’ll experience that same warmth and comfort that I treasure so much!
Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Not only is it mouthwatering, but it’s also easy to make, so you can focus on what really matters—making memories with your loved ones.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pepper steak. I’ve also included some personal notes about each ingredient, plus suggestions for substitutions!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef steak (sirloin or flank) | 1 lb. |
| Bell peppers (red and green) | 2, sliced |
| Onion | 1, sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary sometimes—it makes everything smell divine! You can easily swap out the steak for chicken or tofu if you want a different twist.
Why I Love Making This Dish
The Best Pepper Steak Ever is special for me because not only is it delicious, but it’s also a dish that brings people together. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the tender beef create a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. Every time I serve it, I see my family and friends light up, and I can’t help but smile!
What You’ll Need
Before we get cooking, here are a few tools that will make your life easier:
Ads
- A sharp knife for slicing the beef and veggies.
- A sturdy cutting board.
- A large skillet for cooking everything together.
- A bowl for marinating the beef.
Make sure you have all your ingredients ready, so we can jump right into it!
Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Follow these easy steps for a perfect pepper steak:
Prep the Beef: Start by slicing the beef steak into thin strips. Trust me, this makes it so much easier to cook evenly, and the flavors soak in better!
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This marinade is what takes the dish to the next level, giving it that incredible flavor!
Marinate the Steak: Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. I like to do this while I prepare the veggies, but don’t rush—allowing the meat to marinate is key to that juicy, flavorful bite.
Heat the Skillet: When you’re ready to cook, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the beef quickly, locking in those juices.
Cook the Beef: Add the marinated steak strips to the skillet in a single layer. Let them brown without moving them around too much; this gives a nice, savory crust. Once they’re browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté them until they’re translucent and fragrant—this step is filled with mouthwatering goodness!
Add the Bell Peppers: Toss in the sliced bell peppers and cook until they’re tender. The vibrant colors are not only attractive, but they also add a sweet crunch that complements the beef perfectly.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the veggies and stir it all together. Allow everything to cook for a few more minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pepper steak hot over fluffy rice or noodles. You’re going to love how it comes together—just looking at it makes my heart skip a beat!
Tips for Perfect Results
Cut the Beef Thinly: Make sure your beef is sliced thin. This helps it cook quickly and stay tender.
Marination is Key: Don’t skip the marinade! Letting the meat soak up those flavors makes all the difference.
High Heat Cooking: Cooking the beef and veggies over high heat helps to achieve that perfect caramelization.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love serving this pepper steak with a side of steamed rice or chow mein noodles. If you want to keep it a bit lighter, fresh green beans or a simple salad go wonderfully too. Drizzling some extra soy sauce or chili sauce can add a nice kick!
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or gently sauté them in the skillet until warmed through. The flavors actually get even better as they sit!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can swap out the beef for chicken if you prefer. Just remember that cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it to ensure it stays juicy.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe isn’t very spicy at all; it’s all about the flavor. If you like heat, feel free to add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while cooking!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just let it sit out for a few minutes to come to room temperature before cooking.
Ads
Conclusion
I truly believe that the Best Pepper Steak Ever will become a favorite in your household just like it is in mine. It’s such a joy to cook and share this meal, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too. When you taste those tender pieces of beef mixed with perfectly cooked peppers and onions, you’ll understand why I rave about this dish!
Please give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out for you. I’m so excited to hear your thoughts, and who knows, you might just find your family asking for seconds, just like mine does every time! Enjoy and happy cooking!