Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe

I’ve always been a fan of Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe from my local Chinese restaurant. But one evening, I decided to try making it at home—and wow, was I impressed! The combination of tender flank steak, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce was just as good, if not better, than takeout. Plus, it was ready in under 30 minutes. Now, this dish has become a weeknight favorite in my house.

Ingredients

These are the key ingredients that make this stir fry flavorful and fresh.

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided use: For sautéing the vegetables and steak. I prefer using vegetable oil for its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into strips: Adds a sweet crunch to the dish. Red peppers are sweeter than green ones, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into strips: Provides a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
• 1 1/4 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced: Flank steak is lean and flavorful. To slice it thinly, I place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes to firm it up.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a zesty, peppery kick that complements the garlic.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami base for the sauce.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a glossy consistency.

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

Here are some tweaks and alternatives to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet.
• Sugar-Free: To make it sugar-free, substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol.
• Flavor-Enhancing Add-ins: Consider adding sliced onions for extra sweetness, or a splash of sesame oil for a nutty aroma.

Cooking Time

Quick and easy cooking times make this dish perfect for busy nights.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

These tools make preparing the stir fry simple and efficient.

• Large Pan or Skillet: For sautéing the vegetables and steak.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To slice the vegetables and steak.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurement of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
• Small Bowl: To mix the sauce ingredients.

How to Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry?

Follow these simple steps for a flavorful, restaurant-style dish at home.

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the bell peppers into strips and the flank steak into thin slices. To make slicing the steak easier, place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes before cutting. This firms up the meat, allowing for cleaner, thinner slices.

Cook the Bell Peppers

Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the red and green bell peppers to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they are just tender. Remove the peppers from the pan and set them aside.

Sauté the Steak

In the same pan, add the remaining teaspoon of vegetable oil. Season the thinly sliced flank steak with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Cook the steak for 5-6 minutes, or until it is lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until the sugar and cornstarch are dissolved. Pour this sauce mixture over the cooked steak and vegetables in the pan. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency.

Combine and Serve

Return the sautéed bell peppers to the pan, stirring to incorporate them into the sauce and steak mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through. Serve the pepper steak stir fry over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are my personal tricks to take this stir fry to the next level.

• I find that using freshly minced garlic and ginger adds a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced versions.
• To add a bit of heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes.
• For a richer flavor, drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over the dish just before serving.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.

How to Serve Pepper Steak Stir Fry?

I love serving pepper steak stir fry over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up all the delicious flavors. To make it even more appetizing, I top it with freshly chopped green onions and a light sprinkle of sesame seeds, adding both texture and a nutty flavor. For a low-carb alternative, I sometimes serve it over cauliflower rice, which keeps the dish healthy while still allowing the bold, savory flavors of the stir fry to shine beautifully on the plate.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the main nutritional facts for one serving.

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Make Ahead and Storage

Tips to keep your stir fry fresh and delicious even later.

• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this pepper steak stir fry has become a favorite in my kitchen.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level and ingredients to suit your taste.
• Healthy: Packed with lean protein and vegetables.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish at home.
• Budget-Friendly: Cost-effective ingredients make this a great value meal.

This pepper steak stir fry is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for Asian cuisine. Enjoy!