Get ready to elevate your dinner game with my Savory Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion recipe! This dish is a simple yet flavorful way to showcase tender flank steak, vibrant bell peppers, and juicy onions. Whether you’re a busy chef or a cooking novice, this recipe guides you step-by-step. Let’s slice, marinate, and stir-fry to create a meal that will impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of tender flank steak with vibrant bell peppers and onions creates a mouthwatering dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauces to suit your taste, making it a versatile meal option.
- Healthy and Wholesome: With lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Measurements and Alternatives
For this recipe, I use 1 pound of flank steak. You can also try sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. The two bell peppers add color and flavor. If you want more heat, use a jalapeño instead of one bell pepper. I suggest using a large onion for sweetness. If you want a milder taste, a sweet onion works well.
Tips for Fresh Produce
When picking bell peppers, look for ones that are firm and shiny. Avoid any with soft spots or wrinkles. For onions, choose ones that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be dry and papery. Fresh garlic should be firm and have no green sprouts. If you can, buy organic produce to get the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Flank Steak
Start by taking your flank steak and slice it thin. Make sure you cut against the grain. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the sliced steak to this mix. Make sure the steak is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the meat soak up all the flavors.
Cooking the Steak
Next, grab a large skillet or wok. Heat up the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated steak in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want it browned but not fully cooked. After that, take the steak out of the skillet and set it aside.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the sliced bell peppers. Keep stir-frying for 3 to 4 minutes. You want them to stay tender but crisp. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook this mix for another minute until it smells great.
Combining and Serving
Now, return the cooked flank steak to the skillet. Stir everything together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Taste it and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it. Serve your pepper steak over warm jasmine rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To make your pepper steak burst with flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh bell peppers and onions add crunch and taste. Marinate the flank steak well for at least 15 minutes. This helps the meat soak in the soy and oyster sauces. Use high heat when cooking to get a nice sear on the steak. This step locks in the juices and flavors.
How to Slice Flank Steak Properly
Slicing flank steak correctly is key to a tender bite. Always slice against the grain. The grain refers to the direction the muscle fibers run. If you cut with the grain, the steak will be tough. Aim for thin slices, about a quarter-inch thick. This makes each piece easy to chew and full of flavor.
Substitutions for Ingredients
If you don’t have flank steak, you can use sirloin or skirt steak. Both cuts work well and taste great. For the bell peppers, you can choose yellow or orange peppers for a sweeter flavor. If you want to skip the oyster sauce, use more soy sauce or a bit of hoisin sauce. This keeps the taste rich and savory.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor. If time permits, marinate it for a few hours or overnight for a deeper taste.
- High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat ensures a good sear on the steak, which locks in juices and creates a delicious crust. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the meat.
- Veggie Crunch: To maintain the vibrant color and crunch of the bell peppers and onions, avoid overcooking them. They should be tender yet still crisp when served.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the pepper steak with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap the flank steak for other meats. Chicken or turkey works well. Use thin slices for quick cooking. Pork tenderloin is another great choice. Just marinate it like the beef. For a unique twist, try shrimp or tofu. Both options cook quickly and soak up flavors nicely.
Vegetarian Option
If you prefer a meatless dish, use firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and marinate as you would the steak. Sauté the tofu until golden brown for extra texture. You can also add tempeh for a nutty flavor. This vegetarian pepper steak is still tasty and filling.
Different Vegetable Combinations
Feel free to mix up the veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini add color and crunch. Carrots bring a sweet touch when sliced thin. You can also try mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Just remember to cook the tougher vegetables longer to ensure they soften. Enjoy experimenting with what you have on hand!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover pepper steak, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Always label your container with the date.
Reheating Suggestions
When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a skillet or the microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat on low until warmed through. In the microwave, cover the dish to keep the moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to save your pepper steak for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What can I serve with pepper steak?
You can serve pepper steak with a few great sides. Cooked jasmine rice pairs well. The rice soaks up the tasty sauce. You could also add stir-fried vegetables. A light salad adds a nice crunch.
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak. Sirloin works well and is tender. Ribeye adds more flavor but has more fat. Just slice it thinly like the flank steak.
How do I make pepper steak spicy?
To spice up your pepper steak, add more black pepper. You can also use chili flakes. Sliced jalapeños or serranos bring heat too. Another option is to add hot sauce while cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat it in a pan or microwave. Serve it over fresh rice for a quick meal.
This blog post covered all you need for making pepper steak. We explored fresh ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and flavor tips. You can try variations and learn to store leftovers. Remember, cooking is about testing and having fun. Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Enjoy your meal and make it your own. Happy cooking!
