Pepper Steak Recipe

This Pepper Steak Recipe features tender beef stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers and onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner! Includes tips, variations, and serving ideas.

Ingredients

Meat Seasoning:

• ½ teaspoon EACH: garlic salt, celery salt, onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon EACH: salt, pepper

Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Stir Fry:

• 1 ¼ lb. strip steak, flank steak, or top sirloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 3 cups cooked rice (for serving, see notes)

---

Instructions

Prep Work:

1. Combine cornstarch and cold water in a covered container. Shake to combine and set aside in a cool place.
2. Mix the remaining sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.
3. Measure out all remaining ingredients before starting.

Prepare the Steak:

1. Place plastic wrap over the steak and use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness. This tenderizes the meat for better texture.
2. Trim away large areas of fat. For added flavor, consider frying the fat with the peppers and removing it afterward with tongs.
3. Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Pat dry with paper towels, sprinkle with the seasoning mix, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak in batches for 3-4 minutes per batch, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Remove from heat and let rest.

Make the Stir Fry:

1. Deglaze the skillet by adding the white wine. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up browned bits and simmer over medium heat until the liquid reduces by half, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the bubbling sauce. Continue to simmer until the desired thickness is reached, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Allow it to heat through.
6. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if desired.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepper Steak is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender, seasoned beef with a rich, savory sauce and vibrant bell peppers. This recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors and is easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive for guests.

Tips

• Tenderizing Steak: Pounding the steak and slicing it against the grain ensures a tender texture.
• Cornstarch Mixture: Shake well before adding to the sauce to avoid clumps.
• Wine Substitute: Use beef broth with a splash of lemon juice if you prefer to skip the wine.
• Thickening Sauce: Adjust the cornstarch amount to control the sauce’s consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or snow peas for extra variety.
• Heat Level: Increase hot sauce or add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked steak?
Yes, but add it at the end to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
• Pair with a side of roasted broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Add a drizzle of sesame oil before serving for an extra layer of flavor.