Savor the bold, savory flavors of this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion, a classic dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with vibrant colors and textures. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and sweet onions, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s slightly sweet and tangy.
Perfect served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is a weeknight dinner hero that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this pepper steak recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl (for sauce)
Ingredients Overview
- Beef: Flank steak or sirloin for tender, juicy strips.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of colors for sweetness and crunch.
- Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Sauce: A savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pepper Steak
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ cup beef broth or water
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions (sliced)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and beef broth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)
- Calories: ~300
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Protein: ~30g
Expert Tips
- Thin Slices: Freeze the beef for 20-30 minutes before slicing for easier, thinner cuts.
- High Heat: Use high heat for stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the beef and crisp vegetables.
- Extra Sauce: Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer a saucier dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken breast or thigh works well as a substitute.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
Use hoisin sauce or an extra tablespoon of soy sauce instead.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but store the beef and vegetables separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.
Storing & Reheating
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Substitutions & Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of beef.
- Spicy Twist: Add a sliced chili pepper or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more nutrition.
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Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl (for sauce)
Ingredients
- For the Pepper Steak
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
- For the Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and beef broth. Set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
- Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
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