How to Make Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion at Home

There’s nothing quite like a sizzling plate of tender beef strips coated in a savory sauce, accompanied by crisp bell peppers and onions. If you’re searching for a quick yet impressive dinner option, Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is an excellent choice. This Asian-inspired dish combines the richness of marinated beef with the sweetness of bell peppers and the aromatic depth of onions. The Pepper Steak Recipe has been adapted across various cuisines, but its core elements remain the same: flavorful beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich sauce that ties everything together perfectly.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

For the Beef and Marinade:
– 1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:
– ½ cup beef broth
– 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar

Vegetables and Aromatics:
– 3 bell peppers (mix of red, green, yellow for color)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking

Kitchen Tools:
– Large wok or skillet
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Small mixing bowls
– Measuring spoons and cups
– Wooden spoon or spatula

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Dish

– Prep Time: 20 minutes (including marinating)
– Cooking Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Servings: 4-6 people
– Difficulty Level: Moderate

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Easily

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain, about ¼ inch thick. Place in a bowl.

2. Marinate the beef: Combine soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pour over the beef, mixing well to coat each piece. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

3. Prepare the sauce: Whisk together beef broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and sugar in a bowl. Set aside.

4. Prepare vegetables: Slice bell peppers and onions into similar-sized pieces, about 1 inch wide. Mince garlic and grate ginger.

5. Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in your wok or skillet over high heat until smoking. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 1 minute without stirring. Then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove beef and set aside.

6. Cook the vegetables: In the same wok, add remaining oil. Add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

7. Combine and finish: Return the Pepper Steak Recipe beef to the wok with vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir constantly as it thickens, about 2 minutes. Once the sauce coats everything evenly and the Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is glistening, it’s ready.

8. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice.

Nutritional Benefits of This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Recipe

This dish offers a balanced nutritional profile, with approximately 300-350 calories per serving (excluding rice). It provides:
– High-quality protein from the beef (approximately 25g per serving)
– Vitamins A and C from bell peppers
– Antioxidants from onions and garlic
– Iron and B vitamins from beef
– Lower sodium content if using low-sodium soy sauce

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Lovers

– Protein alternatives: Substitute chicken, pork, or firm tofu for beef
– Vegetable additions: Add snow peas, mushrooms, or water chestnuts for texture
– Spice adjustments: Include sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat
– Sauce variations: Add hoisin sauce for sweetness or black bean sauce for depth
– Serving suggestions: Serve with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

1. Slicing beef with the grain: Always cut against the grain for tender meat
2. Overcooking the vegetables: Bell peppers should remain slightly crisp
3. Using cold beef: Room temperature beef sears better than cold beef
4. Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if necessary for proper searing
5. Not having ingredients ready: Have everything prepped before heating your wok

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Fresh

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
– Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months
– Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth
– Microwave reheating: Use medium power with a damp paper towel cover

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion at Home

The Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a versatile dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort. The key to success lies in proper preparation and quick cooking to maintain the perfect texture of both beef and vegetables. Once you master this Pepper Steak Recipe, you’ll have a reliable weeknight dinner solution that’s both impressive and satisfying. The colorful presentation and bold flavors make this a dish that appeals to even the pickiest eaters.

FAQs About Cooking Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

What cut of beef works best for pepper steak?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are excellent choices. The key is slicing thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep all ingredients ahead of time, but for best results, cook just before serving. The vegetables will lose their crispness if made too far in advance.

How do I make my pepper steak more tender?
Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes, slice thinly against the grain, and avoid overcooking. The cornstarch in the marinade also helps tenderize the meat.

Is pepper steak spicy?
Traditional pepper steak is mildly spiced with black pepper, not hot peppers. Adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chilies if desired.

What can I serve with pepper steak besides rice?
Noodles, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even wrapped in lettuce leaves make excellent alternatives to traditional steamed rice.