Posted by Beef and pepper stir-fry is a quick, high-protein, and colorful dish that combines tender strips of beef with crisp bell peppers, onions, and a savory-sweet sauce. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients, and can be served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Beef sirloin or flank steak – 400 grams, thinly sliced against the grain
- Bell peppers – 2 (red and yellow), sliced into strips
- Onion – 1 medium, thinly sliced
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated
- Spring onions – 2, sliced diagonally
- Olive oil or sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
Sauce Ingredients
- Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
- Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon (or hoisin sauce for vegetarian adaptation)
- Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Honey or maple syrup – 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch – 1 teaspoon (optional, for thickening)
- Water – 3 tablespoons
Optional Add-ins
- Chili flakes – ¼ teaspoon for heat
- Sesame seeds – 1 teaspoon, for garnish
- Mushrooms – ½ cup, sliced
- Broccoli – 1 cup, cut into florets
Equipment Needed
- Wok or large non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife and chopping board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- In a small bowl, toss beef with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional) and set aside. This helps tenderize the meat and gives the sauce a better coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, water, and remaining cornstarch.
- Whisk well to combine and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over high heat until hot.
- Add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just browned but not fully cooked.
- Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add remaining oil to the pan.
- Sauté garlic, ginger, and onions for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers (and optional mushrooms or broccoli) and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.
- Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add spring onions and chili flakes if using, toss to combine.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Tips and Variations
- Marinate beef for 10–15 minutes in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra tenderness.
- Use a mix of bell peppers for vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty flavor.
- For a spicier dish, include sliced fresh chili or more chili flakes.
- Leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day.
Nutritional Highlights
- High in protein from beef
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from bell peppers and onions
- Low in refined carbs if served with cauliflower rice
- Healthy fats from sesame oil (if used)
