Name: Pepper Steak Recipe: Savory and Vibrant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (sliced); 2 tbsp soy sauce (marinade); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 1 green bell pepper (sliced); 1 small onion (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp grated ginger; 1/4 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp soy sauce (sauce); 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water; Optional: Parsley (green onions); Suggested Pairings: Rice (green tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Pepper Steak is a classic, savory stir-fry dish, perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or satisfying savory cravings. This vibrant medley of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, umami-packed sauce delivers bold flavors in a quick, one-pan meal. Presented in a white ceramic dish, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions, this Pepper Steak offers a striking, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth and zest to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pepper Steak:

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade)
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup beef broth
2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Suggested Accompaniments: Steamed rice, noodles
Suggested Pairings: Green tea, light beer
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic dish
Suggested Equipment: Large skillet or wok, small bowl, whisk, tongs, cutting board, sharp knife

Step-by-Step Process

Marinate Beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Cook Beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer; sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the skillet. Sauté bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk beef broth, 2 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with an additional 1/2 tsp soy sauce or a pinch of sugar for a balanced flavor. Pour into skillet; bring to a simmer.
Combine and Thicken: Return beef to skillet. Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats ingredients.
Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic dish, garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve with steamed rice, noodles, green tea, or light beer.

Tips for Better Pepper Steak

Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness; partially freeze for easier slicing.
Taste the sauce before combining to balance umami and sweetness, as soy sauce and oyster sauce vary.
Cook beef in batches to avoid crowding and ensure a good sear.
Keep vegetables crisp-tender for texture; avoid overcooking.
Use a white ceramic dish for a vibrant presentation that highlights the colorful peppers and beef.
Make ahead: Marinate beef and prep vegetables up to 1 day in advance; cook just before serving.
Use high heat for quick cooking to retain flavor and texture.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic dish with bright parsley or green onions for a bold, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Pepper Steak: Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce; ensure cornstarch is gluten-free.
Vegan Pepper Steak: Replace beef with seitan or mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and substitute oyster sauce with vegan oyster sauce or hoisin.
Low-Sodium Pepper Steak: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth; reduce salt to 1/8 tsp.
Spicy Pepper Steak: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 sliced chili pepper with the vegetables.
Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Replace oyster sauce with 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce for a sweeter profile.
Mushroom Pepper Steak: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms with vegetables for extra umami.
Pineapple Pepper Steak: Add 1/2 cup diced pineapple for a sweet-tangy twist.
Beef and Broccoli Pepper Steak: Replace half the bell peppers with 1 cup broccoli florets.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet with 1 tbsp broth to revive the sauce.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Serve hot for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to the meat.
Use leftovers in wraps, fried rice, or over salads.
Pair with rice or noodles to complement the savory, umami flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic dish with vibrant garnishes for a bold, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 cup each):

Calories: 300 kcal
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 1000mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 20% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 80% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in sodium; use low-sodium soy sauce for balance. Pair with vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Pepper Steak recipe offers a savory, vibrant dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a classic stir-fry. Its quick preparation and bold presentation make it a favorite. The tender beef, crisp peppers, and rich sauce delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its flavorful, versatile appeal.