This one-pan pepper steak recipe is a perfect fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a quick and easy dish, combining tender pieces of beef with the sweet and tangy taste of peppers and onions. The savory sauce adds a delectable depth of flavor, making this dish a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
The unique ingredient in this recipe is mirin. It's a sweet rice wine used in Japanese cooking to add a hint of sweetness and glaze to the food. If your local supermarket doesn't stock it, you can find it in any Asian grocery store or online. The other ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making this recipe an easy go-to choice when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients for One-Pan Pepper Steak
Top round beef: This cut of beef is lean and full of flavor. It's perfect for quick cooking methods like stir frying.
Canola oil: Used for its neutral flavor and high smoking point.
Onion: It adds a sweet and savory taste to the dish.
Green bell pepper: It adds a crunchy texture and a fresh, tangy taste.
Orange: It adds a hint of citrusy taste.
Water, soy sauce, worcestershire sauce, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, honey, cornstarch: These are the sauce ingredients that give the dish its unique flavor.
Green onions and sesame seeds: Used for garnishing and adds a nice crunch and flavor.
One reader, Jaynell Brice says:
This one-pan pepper steak recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the one-pan method makes cleanup a breeze. The steak is tender, and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty meal without the hassle.
Essential Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Pepper Steak
How to prepare the sauce: Combine water, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mirin, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and honey in a medium bowl. Whisk to combine and set aside.
How to sear the beef: Heat a cast-iron skillet or wok over high heat and add canola oil. Once the oil is hot, add the beef and cook for about 1 minute without moving it to achieve a nice sear. Stir the beef and continue cooking for 2 to 3 more minutes until done.
How to thicken the sauce: After adding the sauce to the skillet, stir to combine all the ingredients and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Stir often to ensure even thickening.
How to garnish: Once the dish is removed from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
How To Make One-Pan Pepper Steak
This pepper steak has tender beef strips in thick, slightly sweet sauce, tossed with green and orange pepper for color and crunch.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbtop round beef,sliced into strips against the grain
- 2tbspcanola oil,or vegetable oil
- 1large onion,thinly sliced
- 1green bell pepper,cored and sliced
- 1orange,or red bell pepper, cored and sliced
For Sauce:
- ¾cupwater
- 3tbspsoy sauce
- 1tbspWorcestershire sauce
- 1tbspmirin
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- 1tbspginger,minced
- ¼tspred pepper flakes
- ¼cuphoney,or cane sugar
- 2tbspcornstarch
For Garnish:
- green onions,sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
-
Add all the sauce ingredients to a medium bowl and whisk to combine. Set aside.
-
Heat a cast-iron skillet or wok over high heat and add oil.
-
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and peppers, then stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Transfer to a plate when finished.
-
Add beef to the skillet and distribute evenly, cook for about 1 minute unmoved, to get a nice sear on it. Stir the beef and continue cooking for about 2 to 3 more minutes, until done.
-
Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and peppers back to the skillet. Stir the sauce and add it to the skillet.
-
Stir to combine all the ingredients and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Stir often.
-
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds if desired.
Recipe Notes
Beef can be marinated for a few hours. If marinating, whisk all the sauce ingredients except the cornstarch. Put the beef strips in a freezer bag and pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, remove beef from marinade, add liquid to a bowl and whisk in cornstarch.
Nutrition
- Calories: 344.23kcal
- Fat: 12.68g
- Saturated Fat: 2.82g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.30g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.40g
- Carbohydrates: 32.55g
- Fiber: 2.18g
- Sugar: 23.29g
- Protein: 26.75g
- Cholesterol: 71.44mg
- Sodium: 796.42mg
- Calcium: 54.86mg
- Potassium: 701.77mg
- Iron: 3.14mg
- Vitamin A: 11.95µg
- Vitamin C: 44.98mg
Expert Advice for Mastering One-Pan Pepper Steak
When stir-frying, it's important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This is because the process is fast and requires constant stirring. Having everything ready ensures that you can add the ingredients at the right time and not overcook or burn anything. Also, remember to cut your beef into thin, even slices. This will ensure that it cooks quickly and evenly.
Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing One-Pan Pepper Steak
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and slice the beef in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet or wok to cook everything in one pan, reducing the number of dishes to clean up later.
High heat: Cooking at a high temperature will help to quickly sear the beef and vegetables, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
Efficient slicing: Cut the beef and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking and to minimize prep time.
Quick cleanup: While the dish is simmering, clean and put away any tools or ingredients to keep the kitchen tidy.
Substitute Ingredients For One Pan Pepper Steak Recipe
top round beef - Substitute with flank steak: Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that can be used as a substitute for top round beef in this recipe. It has a similar texture and can be cooked quickly over high heat.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil in this recipe as it has a neutral flavor and a similar smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can be used as a substitute for green bell pepper, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
orange - Substitute with tangerine: Tangerine can be used as a substitute for orange, providing a similar citrusy flavor and brightening the dish with its juice and zest.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for soy sauce, providing a similar umami-rich flavor to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and a dash of vinegar: A combination of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar can be used as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce to provide a savory and tangy flavor to the dish.
mirin - Substitute with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar: A mixture of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar can be used as a substitute for mirin to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes, providing a similar level of heat and spiciness to the dish.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a rich and sweet flavor to the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the sauce, providing a similar thickening power without affecting the flavor.
Presentation Tips for a Delicious Pepper Steak Dish
Elevate the plating: When presenting the one-pan pepper steak, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use vibrant and colorful ingredients to add visual interest and make the dish pop. Consider the contrast of the green bell peppers and the caramelized beef for an eye-catching presentation.
Incorporate height and layers: Create a sense of depth and dimension on the plate by layering the pepper steak with the sautéed onions and peppers. This adds complexity to the presentation and showcases the different elements of the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the pepper steak to be the focal point. This can be achieved by arranging the components thoughtfully and leaving areas of the plate bare to draw attention to the dish.
Garnish with precision: Use finely chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds with precision to add a touch of elegance to the presentation. The garnish should be meticulously placed to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Consider the plate shape and color: Select a plate that complements the colors of the dish, such as a sleek, white plate to allow the vibrant colors of the pepper steak to stand out. The shape of the plate should also be chosen thoughtfully to enhance the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making One-Pan Pepper Steak
- Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty pan that distributes heat evenly and is great for searing and stir-frying.
- Wok: A versatile pan with high, sloping sides, perfect for stir-frying and cooking at high temperatures.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together, especially for sauces and dressings.
- Knife: Essential for slicing and cutting ingredients, such as the beef, onion, and peppers in this recipe.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Medium bowl: Used for mixing and combining the ingredients for the sauce.
- Tongs: Useful for flipping and stirring the beef and vegetables while cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients for the sauce.
- Spatula: Helps in stirring and flipping the ingredients in the skillet.
- Plate: Used for transferring cooked ingredients and for serving the dish.
- Grater or zester: If using fresh ginger or garlic, a grater or zester can be used to finely grate these ingredients for the sauce.
Preserving the Flavor: Storing and Freezing Pepper Steak
- Let the pepper steak cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled pepper steak in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pepper steak:
- Transfer the cooled pepper steak to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- If using a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the container or bag in the freezer, laying it flat for even freezing.
- Frozen pepper steak will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen pepper steak:
- Thaw the frozen pepper steak in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed pepper steak to a skillet or wok.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pepper steak is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to thin out the sauce.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the pepper steak in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Pepper Steak
Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat until the beef is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the texture of the meat and vegetables.
Microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through the reheating process to distribute the heat evenly. While convenient, this method may result in slightly softer vegetables.
Preheat an oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the leftover pepper steak to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the sauce to thicken slightly.
If the leftover pepper steak seems dry, add a splash of water, beef broth, or soy sauce before reheating to help moisten the dish and prevent the meat from becoming tough.
For best results, allow refrigerated leftovers to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before reheating. This helps the dish reheat more evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking the beef.
Fascinating Trivia About Pepper Steak
Pepper steak is a popular Chinese-American dish that originated in the 1940s. It was created by Chinese immigrants in response to the American taste for beef. The dish typically features thinly sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions stir-fried in a savory sauce. Despite its American origins, pepper steak has become a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine and is enjoyed by people around the world.
Budget-Friendly One-Pan Pepper Steak: Is It Possible?
This one-pan pepper steak recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of economical ingredients like top round beef, onions, and bell peppers keeps the cost down. The addition of flavorful sauces and spices enhances the taste without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10.
Is This Pepper Steak Recipe Healthy?
The one-pan pepper steak recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe uses top round beef, which is a lean cut of meat that is low in fat and high in protein. This is a healthy choice for a main ingredient.
- The dish includes a variety of vegetables, such as onion, bell pepper, and green onions, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- The sauce contains several flavorful ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and ginger, which can add depth to the dish without relying heavily on salt or unhealthy fats.
- However, the recipe calls for canola oil, which is a refined oil that may contain unhealthy trans fats. Additionally, the honey in the sauce adds extra sugar to the dish.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the canola oil with a healthier alternative, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, which are rich in beneficial fats and have a higher smoke point suitable for stir-frying.
- Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract to lower the overall sugar content.
- Increase the variety of vegetables in the dish by adding nutrient-dense options like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms to boost the fiber and vitamin content.
- Serve the pepper steak over a bed of cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of traditional white rice to increase the fiber and protein content while reducing the carbohydrate intake.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish, or replace it with coconut aminos for a soy-free, lower-sodium alternative.
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This One-Pan Pepper Steak Recipe
The one-pan pepper steak recipe is a delightful combination of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce. The method of searing the beef and stir-frying the vegetables ensures a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The sauce, with its blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and spices, adds a delightful umami and sweet note to the dish. The dish is versatile and can be served with rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal rotation.
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Why trust this One Pan Pepper Steak Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience. The top round beef ensures tender and flavorful bites, while the combination of soy sauce, worcestershire sauce, and mirin creates a harmonious umami flavor. The inclusion of garlic and ginger adds depth, and the touch of honey balances the savory notes. The use of cornstarch guarantees a lusciously thickened sauce. With the vibrant colors of green bell pepper and orange, this dish promises a visually appealing presentation. Trust in this recipe for a sensational pepper steak experience.
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