š„© Pepper Steak ā Donāt Lose This Recipe! š
A bold, sizzling classic that never disappoints
Pepper Steak is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-special but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and a glossy, savory sauce come together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something deeply satisfying without a long cooking time. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish delivers big flavor in every bite.
š¶ļø Introduction
This Pepper Steak recipe is all about balance: juicy beef, sweet peppers, gentle heat from black pepper, and a rich umami sauce that coats everything beautifully. Itās fast, flexible, and endlessly comfortingāthe kind of recipe youāll come back to again and again.
š§ Ingredients (Detailed List)
- Beef steak (sirloin, flank, or round), thinly sliced against the grain
- Bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange), sliced into strips
- Onion, sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Soy sauce
- Beef broth
- Cornstarch (for tender beef and thick sauce)
- Black pepper, freshly ground
- Sugar (just a touch to balance flavors)
- Sesame oil (for aroma)
- Vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
š³ Instructions (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and a small splash of sesame oil. Let it marinate for 15ā20 minutesāthis step keeps the beef tender and flavorful. - Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk beef broth, soy sauce, sugar, and a little cornstarch until smooth. Set aside. - Sear the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear quickly until browned. Remove and set aside. - Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry onions and bell peppers until slightly tender but still crisp. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Combine & Simmer
Return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for 2ā3 minutes until thickened and glossy. - Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra black pepper or soy sauce if needed. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
š„ Cooking Methods & Tips
- High heat is key: Stir-frying quickly locks in juices and keeps veggies crisp.
- Slice against the grain: This ensures tender beef every time.
- Donāt overcrowd the pan: Cook beef in batches if needed for proper searing.
š History of Pepper Steak
Pepper Steak traces its roots to Chinese-American cuisine, inspired by Cantonese stir-fry techniques. Traditionally made with beef and green peppers, it evolved in Western kitchens with bolder seasoning and richer sauces, becoming a beloved takeout classic across the U.S. and beyond.
š§ Formation & Flavor Profile
The dish is built on contrast:
- Tender beef vs. crisp peppers
- Salty soy sauce balanced by a hint of sweetness
- Bold black pepper tying everything together
This harmony is what makes Pepper Steak so addictive.
ā¤ļø Why Everyone Loves Pepper Steak
- Quick and easy (ready in under 30 minutes)
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients
- Customizableāadd mushrooms, chili flakes, or ginger
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
š Conclusion
Pepper Steak is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Whether youāre cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers comfort, boldness, and satisfaction in every bite. Once you try it, itās guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
š½ļø For Pepper Steak Lovers (Serving Ideas)
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice
- Pair with garlic noodles or lo mein
- Add a side of stir-fried green beans or broccoli
š„ One pan, big flavor, zero regrets.
Donāt forget to save this recipeāyouāll crave it again! š