This Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers & Onions is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions in a savory sauce. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, creating a well-balanced meal that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this stir-fry is a fantastic choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef (sirloin, flank steak, or chuck), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and cornstarch.
- Add the thinly sliced beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the pan.
- Stir-fry bell peppers and onions for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour in beef broth or water, sugar, and rice vinegar (if using).
- Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked beef to the pan and toss everything together.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the beef is coated in the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and garnish with red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Stir-Fry:
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Use high heat to achieve a quick sear and prevent soggy vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce or a splash of lime juice for brightness.
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili paste for extra heat.
- Teriyaki Twist: Replace oyster sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Include broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more texture.
This Stir-Fried Beef with Bell Peppers & Onions is a simple yet satisfying dish that delivers bold flavors in every bite. Try it out and let me know how it turns out! 😋