Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a vibrant and savory dish that perfectly balances tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce, all tossed together in a quick and easy stir fry. This recipe highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With its colorful presentation and satisfying taste, Pepper Steak Stir Fry is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Pepper Steak Stir Fry for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of tender beef strips and crisp bell peppers creates a delightful texture that is both satisfying and wholesome. The sauce—made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger—adds a savory depth that elevates the dish. Perfect for those following a busy lifestyle, this recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights and meal-prepping. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that aligns with various dietary preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the Beef: For enhanced flavor and tenderness, marinate the beef slices in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- High Heat Cooking: Stir frying is all about high heat, which helps to seal in the juices of the meat and keeps the vegetables crisp. Use a wok or a large skillet for the best results.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and slice the meat ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day to save time when you’re ready to cook.
- Batch Cooking: If you’re making this for a crowd, double the recipe and cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than frying.
Make Ahead Tips
- Chop Vegetables Ahead: You can chop bell peppers, onions, and any other vegetables a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
- Marinate the Beef: If you plan to make this dish the next day, marinate the beef overnight for maximum flavor.
- Pre-Mix the Sauce: Combine the sauce ingredients in a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a shake before adding it to the stir fry.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Try using chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different protein option.
- Vegetable Additions: Add in other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to increase nutritional value and variety.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, include sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili paste in the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve the Pepper Steak Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. For added texture, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the fresh flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer cocktails, a classic mojito or a ginger ale-based drink would complement the stir fry nicely. For side dishes, consider serving it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the stir fry, it can be kept for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to retain the dish’s texture rather than microwaving it, which can make the beef chewy.
Equipment Needed
- Wok or large skillet (a non-stick pan works too)
- Sharp knife for slicing
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing bowls for marinating and combining the sauce
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, swap out the beef for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Use a vegan soy sauce or tamari to keep it gluten-free. For a nut-free version, ensure your sauces and marinades do not contain any nut oils or flavorings.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider adding in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or fresh corn. In the fall, add sliced mushrooms or butternut squash for a heartier dish. Using fresh, seasonal produce not only enhances flavor but also increases nutritional value.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen beef? Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating and cooking.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? Coconut aminos or liquid aminos are great alternatives for those avoiding soy products.
- How long does it take to cook? The entire cooking process, from marinating to stir frying, should take about 30 minutes.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time for quicker cooking.
How To Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry
Pepper Steak Stir Fry
Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a vibrant and savory dish that perfectly balances tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce, all tossed together in a quick and easy stir fry.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the flank steak slices, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir frying for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pan. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar, then pour it over the beef and vegetables.
- Stir well to coat everything in the sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 404Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 90mgSodium 1358mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 35g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Pepper Steak Stir Fry is not just a delicious meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that can fit into any lifestyle. As you prepare this dish, enjoy the process of bringing together simple elements to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is bound to impress. So grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and let the flavors of this Pepper Steak Stir Fry take you on a culinary adventure!
