Spicy Beef Pepper Stir Fry (Printable version)
Tender beef strips tossed with crisp bell peppers and a bold, spicy sauce in a quick stir fry.
# What you need:
→ Beef
01 - 1.1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
02 - 1 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 1 tbsp soy sauce
04 - 1 tsp sesame oil
→ Vegetables
05 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
06 - 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
07 - 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
08 - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
→ Sauce
11 - 3 tbsp soy sauce
12 - 2 tbsp oyster sauce
13 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
14 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
15 - 1 to 2 tsp chili garlic sauce, adjust to taste
16 - 2 tbsp water
→ Cooking and Garnish
17 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
18 - 2 green onions, sliced
19 - 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
# How To:
01 - In a bowl, mix sliced beef with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly and let rest for 10 minutes.
02 - Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and water in a small bowl until combined.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
04 - Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir-fry onion, garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Add all bell peppers to the pan and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
06 - Return beef to the pan, pour the sauce over, and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until sauce thickens and ingredients are well coated.
07 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a secret because it combines quick prep with bold, unforgettable flavor that won't let you down on busy nights
- The colorful peppers and tender beef make every bite feel like a mini celebration in your mouth
02 -
- Marinating the beef with cornstarch and soy sauce is the secret to keeping it tender and giving the exterior a slight crisp when cooking
- Adjust the chili garlic sauce carefully, it's what makes this dish uniquely spicy and familiar all at once
03 -
- Use high heat for quick cooking to keep vegetables crisp and beef tender without drying out
- Let the sauce thicken slightly before removing from heat to ensure every bite is flavorful and glossy