Best Ever Pepper Steak

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing your steak thinly against the grain. Flank steak works particularly well for this recipe because it’s both flavorful and tender when sliced thin. If you’re using a tougher cut like sirloin, be sure to slice it as thinly as possible to ensure a tender bite. To make slicing easier, place the steak in the freezer for about 30 minutes before cutting.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. This gives the steak a nice caramelized crust. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a bit of crunch. If the pan seems dry, add a small splash of water or oil.

4. Prepare the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, water, garlic, ginger (if using), black pepper, sugar, and vinegar in a bowl. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce and give it a silky texture.

5. Combine the Beef and Vegetables

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the cooked steak to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and veggies. Stir everything together, ensuring the steak and vegetables are coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the steak is fully cooked.

6. Finish with Sesame Oil and Garnish

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle in sesame oil at the end of cooking. This adds a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Best Ever Pepper Steak over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. Pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad to complete the meal.

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak:

• Slicing the Beef: For the most tender texture, slice the beef thinly against the grain. This helps break up the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you like your pepper steak on the spicier side, you can increase the amount of black pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce.
• Use Fresh Bell Peppers: Fresh, crisp bell peppers bring the perfect contrast to the rich sauce. You can mix and match colors for added visual appeal, using red, yellow, or green peppers.
• Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version of this dish, use tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative) in place of regular soy sauce.
• Make Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply store the leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Why This is the Best Ever Pepper Steak:

What sets this pepper steak apart is its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. The beef is tender and juicy, while the bell peppers provide a burst of color and crunch. The sauce is rich but not overpowering, allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine through. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feels special enough for a weekend dinner or holiday celebration.

Whether you’re a fan of classic beef stir-fries or simply looking for a new way to enjoy steak, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple steps make it the Best Ever Pepper Steak, one that you’ll make again and again!

Pro Tip: Pair this dish with a glass of red wine (like a Zinfandel or Merlot) or a chilled, light beer to complement the rich flavors of the pepper steak.