Save This vibrant dish pairs tender slices of beef with a trio of colorful bell peppers, creating layers of texture and taste. The spicy sauce, a balanced blend of soy, oyster, and chili garlic, infuses every bite with bold flavor. Cooked quickly over high heat in a wok ensures the beef remains juicy and peppers crisp. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it's a perfect choice for a weeknight meal bursting with savory heat and freshness.
I still remember the first time I tossed together this spicy beef and pepper stir fry after discovering how vibrant flavors could come alive in just minutes. It felt like a winning dance of heat, freshness, and tenderness all in one sizzling pan.
I remember when unexpected guests dropped by and I whipped up this stir fry with whatever bell peppers I had on hand—everyone was genuinely impressed how something so simple could taste so delicious and spicy without being overpowering.
Ingredients
- Beef: I reach for flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain because it stays tender and soaks up the marinade perfectly
- Vegetables: The trio of red, yellow, and green bell peppers add a fresh crispness and vibrant color you don't want to miss
- Sauce: The balanced mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chili garlic sauce creates that bold yet harmonious flavor punch
- Cooking & Garnish: Dividing the vegetable oil helps get the perfect sear and stir-fry flavor, while toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nutty finish
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
- Combine sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss it well then let it sit for 10 minutes, which helps get that perfect tender bite with a light coating that crisps in the pan.
- Mix the Sauce:
- Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and water in a separate bowl to create the magic that brings everything together.
- Cook Beef Quickly:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil over high heat, add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until it's just browned but not overcooked. Then remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Aromatics:
- Add the remaining oil to the pan and quickly stir-fry the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant and mouthwatering.
- Cook the Peppers:
- Add all the bell peppers and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep them tender but still crisp so the dish maintains texture and freshness.
- Bring It Together:
- Return the beef to the wok, pour in the sauce, and stir-fry everything together for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats every piece perfectly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or noodles.
Save This dish became more than just food when a weeknight dinner turned into a shared moment among friends who kept reaching for seconds and swapping stories amid mouthfuls of spicy, sweet, and savory bites.
Keeping It Fresh
Try to slice all your veggies uniformly—they cook at the same rate and give you those satisfying crunchy bites alongside the tender beef.
When You're Missing Something
If you don't have oyster sauce, you can swap it with hoisin or mushroom soy sauce for an earthy twist that won't derail the overall flavor.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I love serving this over jasmine rice but sometimes noodles work beautifully too. For a touch of fun garnish, a squeeze of lime juice or fresh cilantro can elevate the whole experience.
- Don't forget to taste and adjust spice right at the end—it's easier to add than take away
- A quick sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds finishes this beautifully
- Leftover stir fry reheats well and even tastes better the next day as flavors meld
Save Thanks for sticking around in the kitchen with me. I hope this stir fry fills your home with warmth and flavor as much as it does mine!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef works best for this stir fry?
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Flank steak or sirloin are ideal for their tenderness and ability to soak up marinades well when sliced thin against the grain.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
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Modify the amount of chili garlic sauce to suit your heat preference, starting with less and increasing gradually.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
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Yes, substitute tamari for soy sauce and use a gluten-free vegetarian alternative for oyster sauce.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
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Steamed jasmine, basmati, or brown rice are classic options, or try noodles for extra variety.
- → What tools are recommended for cooking?
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A large wok or skillet, sharp knife, mixing bowls, and a wooden spoon or spatula will make preparation and cooking easier.
