Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
Tender strips of marinated beef and crisp bell peppers tossed in a rich, savory black pepper sauce. A classic Chinese-American takeout favorite you can make at home in under 30 minutes, perfect over a bed of fluffy white rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Steak
- b.Pat the thinly sliced flank steak dry with paper towels. This helps it get a better sear.
- c.In a medium bowl, combine the steak strips with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Toss well to coat each piece evenly.
- d.Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Vegetables and Sauce
- b.While the steak marinates, slice the bell peppers and onion into strips. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- c.In a separate small bowl, prepare the stir-fry sauce. Whisk together the beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, oyster sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, black pepper, and sugar until smooth. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sear the Steak
- b.Heat 1.5 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
- c.Carefully add half of the marinated steak in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until well-browned and cooked through.
- d.Remove the seared steak from the wok and set aside on a plate. Add the remaining 1.5 tbsp of oil and repeat with the rest of the steak.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir-Fry Vegetables
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-high. To the same wok, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- c.Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and crisp-tender.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Return the seared steak to the wok with the vegetables.
- c.Give the prepared sauce a quick stir to ensure the cornstarch is not settled at the bottom, then pour it into the wok.
- d.Stir everything together continuously for 1-2 minutes as the sauce bubbles and thickens to coat the steak and vegetables.
- e.Remove from heat, garnish with sliced scallions, and serve immediately with hot steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier slicing, place the steak in the freezer for 20-30 minutes until it's firm but not frozen solid.
- 2Always slice beef against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in a much more tender bite.
- 3Ensure your wok or skillet is screaming hot before adding the steak. This creates a beautiful sear and prevents the meat from steaming.
- 4Cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature and prevents browning.
- 5Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go (mise en place) before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a very fast process.
- 6For a deeper flavor, toast the coarsely ground black pepper in a dry pan for 30 seconds until fragrant before adding it to the sauce.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few sliced red chilies along with the garlic and ginger for a spicy kick.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This recipe works wonderfully with thinly sliced chicken thighs, pork loin, or firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Incorporate other vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or snow peas. Add heartier vegetables like broccoli a minute or two before the peppers.
Sauce EnhancementSauce Enhancement
Add 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine) to the sauce for a more authentic and complex flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting metabolic function, and maintaining overall body strength.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Bell peppers are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Beef is a great source of iron for oxygen transport and B vitamins, especially B12, for energy production and nerve health.
Quick and Balanced Meal
This stir-fry combines protein, vegetables, and flavor into a single dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a nutritious and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Pepper Steak Stir-Fry contains approximately 480-550 calories, not including rice. The exact number can vary based on the fat content of the beef and the amount of oil used.