If you’re craving a dish that’s savory, hearty, and packed with bold flavors, this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a must-try! This Chinese-American classic features tender slices of beef, crisp-tender bell peppers, and a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for serving over rice or noodles.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and creative variations to help you master this delicious dish! ????????
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Fast & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
✔️ Packed with Flavor – A savory, umami-rich sauce with a hint of sweetness.
✔️ Better Than Takeout – Fresher, healthier, and just as delicious!
✔️ Customizable – Add extra veggies or swap the protein.
✔️ Perfect with Rice or Noodles – A versatile dish for any meal.
Ingredients (in grams)
For the Steak & Vegetables:
- 500g flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
- 1 tbsp (15ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper (150g), sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper (150g), sliced
- 1 medium onion (100g), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic (10g), minced
- 1 tsp (5g) fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp (45ml) soy sauce
- 1 tbsp (15ml) oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp (15g) hoisin sauce (for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) rice vinegar (for balance)
- 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar
- ½ tsp (2g) black pepper
- ½ tsp (2g) crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp (30ml) water (to thicken sauce)
For Serving:
- Steamed white rice or noodles
- Sesame seeds & sliced green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain (this keeps it tender).
- In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry (this will help thicken the sauce).
Step 3: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp of oil.
- Stir-fry the onions, garlic, ginger, and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked beef to the pan.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy! ????
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Expert Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
✔️ Use the Right Cut of Beef – Flank steak or sirloin are the best choices because they cook quickly and stay tender.
✔️ Slice Against the Grain – This ensures the meat stays tender and easy to chew.
✔️ Marinate for Extra Tenderness – Even 10 minutes in soy sauce and cornstarch makes a big difference.
✔️ Cook on High Heat – Stir-frying at high heat keeps the beef juicy and the veggies crisp.
✔️ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if needed, so the beef browns properly instead of steaming.
Creative Variations
????️ Spicy Szechuan Style – Add extra chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns for a fiery kick!
???? Veggie-Packed – Add mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
???? Chicken or Shrimp Version – Swap the beef for sliced chicken breast or shrimp.
???? Sweet & Savory – Add pineapple chunks for a sweet, tangy twist.
???? Saucy & Extra Savory – Double the sauce and mix in a splash of beef broth for a richer flavor.
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