Beef pepper steak is a classic dish that combines tender strips of beef with colorful bell peppers and a savory sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something flavorful without a lot of fuss. If you’ve ever wondered how to make beef pepper steak at home, this article will guide you through a straightforward recipe along with some tips to make it extra tasty.
What Is Beef Pepper Steak?
Beef pepper steak is a stir-fry dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked with bell peppers, onions, and a rich, peppery sauce. The sauce typically includes soy sauce, garlic, and sometimes ginger, giving it a savory and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of spice from black pepper. It’s often served over rice, making it a complete and hearty meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of common ingredients for making beef pepper steak:
– Beef: Flank steak, sirloin, or top round steak, thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
– Bell peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers sliced into strips.
– Onion: Sliced, usually white or yellow.
– Garlic and ginger: Minced for aromatic flavor.
– Soy sauce: The base of the savory sauce.
– Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
– Sugar or brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.
– Beef broth or water: For the sauce liquid.
– Black pepper: Freshly cracked for that signature peppery bite.
– Vegetable oil: For stir-frying.
– Optional: Tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rice vinegar, or chili flakes for extra depth and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Beef Pepper Steak
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender when cooked. Slice your bell peppers and onion into strips. Mince the garlic and ginger.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and onions and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
Add a bit more oil to the pan and increase the heat to high. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Stir-fry the beef for about 4-6 minutes until it is browned but not overcooked.
4. Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar (or brown sugar), cornstarch, and beef broth or water. Some recipes also include Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, or rice vinegar to enhance the flavor.
6. Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked peppers and onions to the pan with the beef. Pour the sauce over everything and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables nicely.
7. Serve
Serve your beef pepper steak hot over steamed white rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef Pepper Steak
– Choose the right cut: Flank steak and sirloin are great choices because they cook quickly and remain tender when sliced thinly.
– Slice against the grain: This technique breaks down muscle fibers, making the beef easier to chew.
– Don’t overcook the beef: Stir-fry on high heat and remove the beef as soon as it’s browned to avoid toughness.
– Use fresh vegetables: Bell peppers add color and crunch, so use fresh and crisp ones for the best texture.
– Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding it to the pan and adjust soy sauce, sugar, or black pepper according to your preference.
– Add a little heat: If you like spicy food, add chili flakes or fresh chili to the sauce.
Variations to Try
– Southern-style pepper steak: Incorporate beef stock, tomato paste, and onions for a gravy-like sauce served over rice.
– Midwestern twist: Add honey and sesame oil to the sauce for a sweeter, richer flavor, and serve over mashed potatoes.
– Asian-inspired: Use rice vinegar and Worcestershire sauce in the marinade for a tangy depth.
Beef pepper steak is a versatile dish that you can easily customize to your taste and pantry ingredients. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!