Best Ever Pepper Steak

Pepper steak is a classic Chinese-American dish known for its flavorful sauce and tender strips of beef with bell peppers. Here’s a recipe for making a delicious homemade version of the Best Ever Pepper Steak:

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound flank steak, sirloin, or other tender cuts of beef, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Pepper Steak:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
• 1-2 teaspoons black pepper (adjust to taste)
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:
   • In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, rice wine or sherry, cornstarch, sugar, and black pepper.
   • Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth or water, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Set this sauce aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
   • Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to become tender.
   • Remove the sautéed vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Beef:
   • In the same skillet or wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
   • Add the minced garlic and ginger (if using) and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
   • Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing them to heat through.
5. Add the Sauce:
   • Give the sauce a quick stir and then pour it over the beef and vegetables in the skillet.
   • Stir continuously as the sauce thickens, which should only take a minute or so.
6. Season with Black Pepper:
   • Adjust the black pepper to taste. Add 1-2 teaspoons of black pepper or more if you prefer a spicier pepper steak.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish your Best Ever Pepper Steak with chopped green onions if desired.
   • Serve hot over steamed white or brown rice.

Enjoy your homemade Best Ever Pepper Steak, a flavorful and savory dish that’s sure to satisfy your Chinese takeout cravings.