When you’re in the mood for a quick and delicious meal, a Pepper Steak Stir-Fry is the perfect solution. This 15-minute recipe is packed with tender strips of beef, crisp peppers, and a flavorful sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal that requires minimal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the world of Pepper Steak Stir Fry and explore how to make this delicious dish in no time!
Why You’ll Love Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
There’s something about the combination of beef and peppers that makes it a classic favorite in stir-fry recipes. The beef is tender and juicy, while the peppers add a refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness. The sauce is the true hero, tying everything together with its savory umami flavor.
One of the best things about this Pepper Steak Recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In just 15 minutes, you can have a complete meal on the table, making it ideal for busy weekdays when you don’t have the time for elaborate cooking.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Steak Stir Fry recipe is incredibly easy to follow. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while keeping the dish hearty and filling.
Ingredients for Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
To make this easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef (flank steak or sirloin): 1 lb (450g), thinly sliced against the grain
- Bell peppers: 2, sliced (preferably one red and one green for color)
- Onion: 1, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced
- Soy sauce: 3 tbsp (for the savory flavor)
- Oyster sauce: 1 tbsp (optional, for richness)
- Cornstarch: 1 tbsp (to thicken the sauce)
- Sesame oil: 2 tsp (adds a nutty flavor)
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp (for stir-frying)
- Beef broth or water: 1/4 cup (to create the sauce)
- Brown sugar: 1 tsp (for a touch of sweetness)
- Black pepper: to taste
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, for added spice
- Rice: Cooked, for serving
How to Make Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the beef into thin strips. It’s best to slice against the grain to ensure that the beef remains tender after cooking. Next, slice your bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger to release their aromatic flavors.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth or water. Stir until the cornstarch dissolves. This will be the sauce that brings everything together. If you like a touch of sweetness, add the brown sugar to the sauce mixture.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the beef to keep it tender.
Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This allows the beef to rest and ensures that it stays juicy.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sesame oil. Then, toss in the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. This is the sweet spot where the peppers are vibrant and fresh, and the onions are just translucent.
Step 4: Combine Beef and Sauce
Once the vegetables are ready, return the beef to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and clings to the beef and vegetables.
If you like a little heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage for a spicy kick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Pepper Steak Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal in just 15 minutes! The beef should be tender, the peppers crisp, and the sauce should have a balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
Variations on the Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
While the classic Pepper Steak Stir Fry is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
- Add More Veggies: You can experiment with adding other vegetables to the stir-fry, such as snap peas, mushrooms, or even broccoli. These will add more texture and flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you love spice, you can add sliced fresh chilies or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You could also try a spicy stir-fry sauce or chili garlic sauce for an extra level of heat.
- Alternative Proteins: Instead of beef, you can swap in other proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist on this Beef Stir Fry Recipe.
- Sweet and Sour Flavor: For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of rice vinegar and a little honey to the sauce mixture to give it a sweet and tangy kick.
- Serve with Noodles: Instead of rice, serve your Pepper Steak Stir Fry over cooked noodles for a noodle stir-fry version. This can be a fun twist and makes the dish even more filling.
Why This Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a Go-To Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Pepper Steak Stir Fry takes only 15 minutes to make, which means you can whip it up on even the busiest nights. The cooking time is short, and the preparation is simple, making it perfect for those who want a homemade meal without the hassle.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a savory and umami-packed sauce that elevates the dish. The sweetness from the bell peppers and the slight spice from the pepper flakes balance the rich sauce.
- Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of mild flavors or you love spice, this recipe can easily be tailored to your preferences. You can add more vegetables, change up the protein, or adjust the spice level to suit your tastes.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With lean beef, fresh peppers, and onions, this stir-fry is a healthy meal option. Plus, you can load it with extra veggies to make it even more nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a great recipe for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for a few days. Simply reheat it and serve over fresh rice for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak Stir Fry
- Use Thinly Sliced Beef: To ensure that the beef cooks quickly and remains tender, slice it as thinly as possible. Freezing the beef for 15-20 minutes before slicing can make it easier to cut thin strips.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When stir-frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If the beef or vegetables are too crowded, they will steam instead of stir-fry, which can affect the texture and flavor.
- High Heat: Stir-frying is all about high heat. Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the ingredients. This helps achieve that perfect sear on the beef and vegetables.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you like a saucier stir-fry, you can increase the amount of soy sauce or add a little more beef broth. Just be sure to adjust the cornstarch accordingly to maintain the sauce’s thickness.
Conclusion
This Pepper Steak Stir Fry is the epitome of a quick, delicious, and customizable meal. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying yet simple. Whether you’re a fan of Beef Stir Fry Recipes or Steak Stir Fry in general, this recipe will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire. The sweet and savory combination of beef, peppers, and sauce will leave you craving more every time.
So next time you’re in the mood for a fast, tasty, and filling meal, look no further than this Pepper Steak Stir-Fry recipe. It’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful, all while being ready in just 15 minutes!
