Pepper Steak is more than just a dish—it’s a feast for your senses. The sizzle of steak in the pan, the vibrant colors of bell peppers, and the tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger all come together to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, Pepper Steak is a quick, flavorful recipe that’s sure to satisfy.

Why Pepper Steak Is a Must-Have in Your Recipe Repertoire

There’s something magical about the combination of tender steak and crisp bell peppers coated in a savory sauce. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. The dish is also incredibly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Pepper Steak

For the Sauce

• ⅓ cup low-sodium beef broth
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons mirin (a sweet Japanese cooking wine)
• ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Steak and Peppers

• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1¼ lbs. beef (petite shoulder, flank steak, skirt steak, or top sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger or ginger paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Pepper Steak

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This sauce will be the star of the dish, bringing all the flavors together.

2. Sear the Steak

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices in a single layer, sprinkling with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the steak until browned on both sides, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Set the cooked beef aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high. Add the bell peppers and onion, cooking until they just start to brown on the edges (about 2–3 minutes). Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside with the steak.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium-low. If needed, add a small amount of oil to the skillet. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to release their aroma.

5. Thicken the Sauce

Whisk the prepared sauce again to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the ginger and garlic, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

6. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked steak and vegetables to the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Let the dish warm for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Pepper Steak over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak

1. Use the Right Cut of Beef: Choose tender cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin for the best results.
2. Slice Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and evenly. Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites.
3. Prep Ingredients First: Stir-frying moves fast, so have everything chopped and ready before you start cooking.
4. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
5. Serve Fresh: This dish tastes best when enjoyed right away while the vegetables are still crisp.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	290
Protein	25g
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	50mg
Sodium	480mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	6g

Pepper Steak Variations and Additions

1. Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.

2. Go Low-Carb

Skip the rice or noodles and serve Pepper Steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

3. Add Extra Veggies

Incorporate broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for added crunch and nutrition.

4. Sweeten the Sauce

If you prefer a sweeter profile, add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan: This prevents the steak from browning properly. Cook in batches for the best results.
2. Skipping the Sauce Prep: Whisk the sauce ingredients together before cooking to save time and ensure even consistency.
3. Overcooking the Vegetables: Keep the veggies crisp-tender for a vibrant and fresh texture.
4. Using High-Sodium Ingredients: Stick to low-sodium soy sauce and broth to control the saltiness.

FAQs About Pepper Steak

1. Can I make Pepper Steak gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure other ingredients like cornstarch are gluten-free.

2. What can I serve with Pepper Steak?

Pepper Steak pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.

3. Can I freeze Pepper Steak?

Yes, you can freeze it. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain the texture of the vegetables.

4. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken breast or thighs for the beef, and follow the same cooking method.

5. How do I ensure the sauce thickens properly?

Make sure to whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the sauce before adding it to the skillet. Cook the sauce over medium heat while stirring continuously.

6. What is mirin, and can I substitute it?

Mirin is a sweet Japanese cooking wine. If you don’t have it, you can use a mix of dry white wine and a pinch of sugar as a substitute.

Conclusion: Pepper Steak Made Simple and Delicious

Pepper Steak is a classic dish that brings together bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying texture. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and savor the magic of homemade Pepper Steak today!

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