Best Ever Pepper Steak

Introduction:

Best Ever Pepper Steak is a savory and flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and onions in a rich and aromatic sauce. This classic Chinese-American recipe is beloved for its bold flavors and comforting appeal. Whether served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the meat evenly, then set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef slices and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the sliced onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in sesame oil and hoisin sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until everything is heated through and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve the Best Ever Pepper Steak hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Note:

Be sure to slice the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Serving Suggestions:

Best Ever Pepper Steak pairs perfectly with steamed white or brown rice, or you can serve it over cooked noodles for a delicious stir-fry noodle dish. For added freshness, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce to the dish.
• You can customize this recipe by using different color bell peppers or adding other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas.
• To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Potassium: 550mg

Alternative recipe for vegans:

Ingredients:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Follow the same preparation steps as the original recipe, substituting tofu for beef.
2. Cook the tofu until golden brown before adding the vegetables.

Alternative recipe for vegetarians:

Ingredients:

• Follow the original recipe, substituting tofu for beef.

Alternative recipe for Kids:

Ingredients:

• Reduce the amount of black pepper used in the recipe to make it milder for kids’ palates.
• Serve the dish with plain rice or noodles, skipping any additional spicy toppings.

FAQ:

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
   While flank steak is traditionally used for pepper steak, you can also use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the dish when ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover pepper steak in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What other sauces can I use instead of hoisin sauce?
   You can substitute hoisin sauce with barbecue sauce or a combination of soy sauce and honey for a slightly different flavor.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

Conclusion:

Best Ever Pepper Steak is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its tender beef, colorful vegetables, and flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Chinese-American comfort food at home!