Classic Pepper Steak
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender beef strips cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal with rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut beef across the grain into thin strips, then into 1-inch squares.
- Coat beef with 1 tablespoon stir-fry sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add beef and stir-fry for 1 minute; remove from pan.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in the same pan.
- Add bell peppers and onions; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Stir in beef and 1/4 cup stir-fry sauce.
- Cook and stir just until beef and vegetables are coated with sauce.
- Serve immediately with hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, marinate the beef in the stir-fry sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking. You can substitute the beef sirloin with flank steak or even chicken for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili sauce during stir-frying. Remember to cut the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the classic pepper steak over a bed of hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Fried Wonton for a delightful Chinese-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Pepper Steak contains roughly 1099 calories, with 61g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (122% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
While it's best to use fresh beef for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen beef if it's properly thawed first. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to retain its quality before cutting and marinating.
What type of rice is best to serve with pepper steak?
Jasmine or basmati rice works wonderfully with pepper steak due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, which adds a nutty flavor and pairs well with the rich sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Use the same marinade and cooking method to maintain the flavor profile. This makes it an excellent option for those looking for meatless meals in their weekly rotation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).