If you love flavorful, tender beef dishes with a touch of Asian flair, pepper steak is a fantastic choice. This classic stir-fry combines juicy strips of steak with vibrant bell peppers and a savory sauce that’s both sweet and slightly spicy. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, making pepper steak at home is easier than you think-and it tastes just like your favorite takeout.
What Is Pepper Steak?
Pepper steak is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked quickly with bell peppers, onions, and a flavorful brown sauce. The sauce typically includes soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and black pepper, giving it a delicious umami punch and a hint of spice. It’s usually served over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make pepper steak, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
– 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– ½ cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
Start by slicing your steak into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, cutting against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender. For easier slicing, you can freeze the steak for about 30 minutes beforehand. Then, toss the steak strips with a little baking soda (optional) and a tablespoon of soy sauce to lightly marinate it for 15-30 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and infuses flavor.
2. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will thicken into a glossy sauce that coats the steak and vegetables perfectly.
3. Cook the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering. Add the steak strips in batches, spreading them out so they sear nicely without overcrowding. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the steak and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp and slightly charred. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the steak and veggies beautifully. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve
Spoon the pepper steak over bowls of steamed white rice or your favorite noodles. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or sesame seeds if you like.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
– Slice Against the Grain: This keeps your beef tender and easy to chew.
– Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches for a good sear.
– Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. If it’s too thin, add a little more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and crisp bell peppers make a big flavor difference.
– Marinate for Flavor: Even a short marinade boosts tenderness and taste.
Variations to Try
– Swap bell peppers for other veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
– Use chicken, tofu, or pork instead of beef for a different twist.
– Add a bit of chili paste or fresh chili for extra heat.
– Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Making pepper steak at home is a quick, satisfying way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the wait. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious, colorful dish on your table in about 20 minutes.
Enjoy your homemade pepper steak with rice or noodles for a comforting, flavorful dinner any night of the week!