Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers Recipe
Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? This Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers recipe is just what you need! Whether you’re craving something savory, a little bit sweet, or with a kick of heat, this dish has it all. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner with friends and family. Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy beef paired with vibrant bell peppers and a flavorful sauce. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this easy and tasty stir-fry!
Why You’ll Love This “Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers”
This Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers recipe is a perfect balance of flavors. The tender beef absorbs the rich, savory sauce, while the crisp bell peppers and onions add a refreshing crunch. Plus, the sauce has just the right amount of sweetness, tanginess, and umami, making every bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, and the best part is it comes together in a flash. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a meal for yourself, this stir-fry will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
What Does Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers Taste Like?
The Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers has a savory, slightly sweet flavor profile with a subtle hint of spice from the red pepper flakes (optional). The soy sauce and oyster sauce combine to create a rich umami base, while the honey or brown sugar balances out the saltiness. The garlic and ginger infuse the dish with aromatic warmth, and the sesame oil adds a nutty finish. The fresh bell peppers and onions add brightness and texture, making every bite a perfect combination of tender beef and crisp vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for heat
Kitchen Tools Needed:
- Large skillet or wok
- Small bowl for sauce
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board for slicing vegetables and beef
- Measuring spoons and cups
How to Make “Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers”
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, water, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside so that the flavors can meld while you prepare the stir-fry.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the red, green, and yellow bell peppers, along with the sliced onion. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, until they’re tender but still crisp. The bright colors and crunchy texture add a beautiful contrast to the tender beef.
Step 4: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir everything together to coat evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and everything to come together.
Step 5: Serve
Once the sauce has thickened and the beef and vegetables are coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. If desired, garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
What to Serve with “Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers”
This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed Rice: The perfect base to soak up the savory sauce.
- Noodles: Serve the stir-fry over egg noodles, soba, or rice noodles for a hearty meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: A light and healthy addition to balance the richness of the stir-fry.
- Garlic Bread: For a crunchy, flavorful side that complements the savory notes of the beef.
Tips for Making the Best “Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers”
- Slice the Beef Thinly: For the most tender stir-fry, make sure to slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This helps ensure the beef cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Use High Heat: Stir-fry is all about quick cooking. Make sure your skillet or wok is preheated to medium-high heat to get that perfect sear on the beef.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, cook in batches. Overcrowding the pan will steam the ingredients instead of stir-frying them.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas to the stir-fry for more variety.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before storing.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If reheating in the skillet, add a splash of water to help bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as sirloin, rib-eye, or skirt steak. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness.
2. Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?
If you’re avoiding soy sauce, you can substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free, soy-free alternative.
3. How can I make the stir-fry spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a sliced fresh chili to the stir-fry.
4. Can I freeze this stir-fry?
While stir-fried beef with vegetables can be frozen, the texture of the vegetables may change slightly. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
5. Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir-fry up to a day in advance. Just store the cooked dish in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Stir-Fry Beef with Bell Peppers recipe is a fantastic option when you need a quick, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weeknight meal for one, this stir-fry is always a hit. Don’t forget to try out the tips and tricks for the best stir-fry experience!
