Introduction
Juicy strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce — that’s the beauty of Homemade Pepper Steak. 🥢✨ Inspired by the classic Chinese-American takeout favorite, this quick stir-fry delivers bold flavor and tender texture in every bite.
It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant!
(Focus Keyword: Homemade Pepper Steak)
Ingredients List
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional but recommended)
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
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Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the veggies.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned (do this in batches if needed). Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine & Sauce It Up
Return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir until everything is coated and glossy. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Healthier Alternatives
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut salt.
- Swap beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
- Add more veggies — like broccoli, snow peas, or zucchini — for extra fiber.
- Replace brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar for natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles.
- Serve with spring rolls or Asian cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for extra heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting beef incorrectly: Always slice against the grain for tenderness.
- Overcrowding the pan: Causes steaming — cook in small batches for a proper sear.
- Skipping cornstarch in the marinade: It helps tenderize the meat and give that silky texture.
- Overcooking vegetables: Keep them crisp and colorful for best flavor and presentation.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Keeps up to 2 months (without rice). Thaw before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This Homemade Pepper Steak is a delicious, fast, and satisfying stir-fry that hits all the right notes — tender beef, crisp peppers, and a glossy, savory sauce. 🥩🌶️ Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving restaurant-quality takeout at home.
Once you try it, you’ll never go back to ordering pepper steak again!
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