Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion: A Flavorful Stir-Fry

When you’re in the mood for a quick, satisfying, and colorful meal, Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion hits the spot. This classic stir-fry combines tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that’s packed with umami goodness. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, bursting with flavor and ready in no time.

Imagine juicy slices of steak coated in a silky sauce, paired with the crisp-tender crunch of bell peppers and onions. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice or noodles, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a perfect balance of taste, texture, and convenience. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Nutrient-Packed: Bell peppers and onions provide vitamins and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Save money and skip takeout with this flavorful homemade option.

Ingredients for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this savory stir-fry to life.

For the Stir-Fry

Ingredient	Quantity
Flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)	1 lb
Red bell pepper (thinly sliced)	1
Green bell pepper (thinly sliced)	1
Yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)	1
Medium onion (thinly sliced)	1
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp

For the Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Soy sauce	1/4 cup
Oyster sauce	2 tbsp
Cornstarch	1 tbsp
Water	2 tbsp
Rice vinegar	1 tbsp
Honey or brown sugar	1 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Fresh ginger (grated)	1 tsp
Sesame oil	1 tsp
Red pepper flakes (optional)	1/2 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

1. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Soy sauce
   • Oyster sauce
   • Cornstarch
   • Water
   • Rice vinegar
   • Honey or brown sugar
   • Garlic
   • Ginger
   • Sesame oil
   • Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat.
2. Set the sauce aside for later use.

2. Cook the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced flank steak and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned and just cooked through.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion.
3. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat the ingredients evenly.
3. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Pepper Steak hot over:
  • Steamed rice
  • Noodles
• Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

1. Slice the Steak Thinly

Cutting the steak against the grain ensures tender, easy-to-chew pieces.

2. Use High Heat

Stir-frying on medium-high heat prevents the ingredients from steaming and helps achieve that perfect char.

3. Customize the Veggies

Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and variety.

4. Adjust the Sauce

For a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch. For a tangier flavor, increase the rice vinegar.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	3 g

Creative Variations of Pepper Steak

1. Gluten-Free Version

• Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free or substitute it with additional tamari.

2. Spicy Pepper Steak

• Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.

3. Vegetarian Twist

• Swap the steak with firm tofu, tempeh, or seitan for a plant-based alternative.

4. Tropical Fusion

• Add chunks of pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor.

5. Garlic-Lovers Version

• Double the garlic in the sauce for a more robust flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, sirloin, skirt steak, or even ribeye works well for this recipe. Just ensure the beef is thinly sliced.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the texture of the veggies.

3. Can I freeze Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the texture and prevent the vegetables from becoming mushy.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sauce and slice the beef and vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and stir-fry when ready to serve.

6. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are ideal, but frozen bell peppers and onions can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

A Final Word: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a versatile, quick, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender steak, vibrant vegetables, and rich sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings and your schedule.

Ready to Cook?

Grab your skillet, prep your ingredients, and whip up this delicious stir-fry tonight. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!

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