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Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe
Introduction
Beef and bell pepper stir-fry is the ultimate combination of vibrant vegetables and tender, flavorful beef cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
This dish is a true star in the world of quick and healthy meals, bringing a balance of protein, nutrients, and bold flavors to the table.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Inspired by Asian-style stir-fries, this dish highlights the natural sweetness of bell peppers and the umami-rich taste of beef, brought together with a savory, slightly tangy sauce.
Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy days when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
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You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
Let’s explore the step-by-step process to create this colorful, delicious, and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
1 lb (450 g) of beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 medium onion, sliced
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, grated (optional)
For the Sauce:
1/4 cup of soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
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1 tablespoon of cornstarch
1/4 cup of water or beef broth
1 teaspoon of sugar (optional for balancing flavors)
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes (optional for heat)
Optional Garnish:
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
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- Start by slicing the beef into thin strips. For easier slicing, partially freeze the beef for 20 minutes beforehand.
- In a small bowl, marinate the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it sit for 15 minutes to tenderize and absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water (or beef broth), sugar, and black pepper. Add chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but remain crisp. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil and heat over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
- Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the pan with the beef. Stir to combine.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or a bed of quinoa.
Conclusion
This Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry is a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s bound to become a family favorite.
The combination of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.
Best of all, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or impromptu dinners with guests.
Feel free to get creative with this dish by swapping out bell peppers for other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
You can also adjust the spice level by adding more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.