Pepper Steak is a savory stir-fry dish featuring tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and onions tossed in a rich and slightly sweet sauce. It’s a classic recipe that brings the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepper Steak is a quick, balanced, and satisfying meal. It pairs tender beef with the crunch of fresh peppers in a flavorful sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s also highly versatile and works beautifully over rice or noodles.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• Green and red bell peppers, sliced
• Onion, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Cornstarch
• Water or beef broth
• Brown sugar
• Vegetable oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

directions

1. Toss the beef slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry beef until browned and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry until just tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, water or broth, and brown sugar.
5. Return beef to the pan and pour in the sauce.
6. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until everything is well-coated and sauce thickens.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add sliced mushrooms or snow peas.
• Use chicken or tofu as an alternative to beef.
• Make it spicy by adding chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for pepper steak?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal due to their tenderness when thinly sliced.

Can I use frozen peppers?

Yes, but fresh peppers have a better texture and flavor.

Is pepper steak spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add spice to taste.

Can I use soy sauce alone for the sauce?

Soy sauce works, but oyster sauce adds depth and richness.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, the beef and sauce can be prepped in advance for quick cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy and oyster sauces to make it gluten-free.

Can I serve this with noodles?

Yes, it’s delicious over lo mein or rice noodles.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Cornstarch thickens the sauce naturally. If needed, add a bit more dissolved in water.

What oils are best for stir-frying?

High smoke-point oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are best.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak is a beloved stir-fry dish that delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and always a hit at the dinner table.

---

Creamy Tomato Soup with Croutons

This Creamy Tomato Soup with Croutons is a comforting classic featuring a velvety smooth texture and rich tomato flavor. Served with crispy golden croutons, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy lunch or light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, creamy, and full of savory goodness, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. The croutons add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky soup. It’s a timeless favorite that pleases every palate.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned whole tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Carrot, chopped
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Sugar (optional)
• Fresh thyme (optional)
• Crusty bread, cubed (for croutons)

directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter. Add onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté until softened.
2. Add tomatoes and broth. Simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth.
4. Stir in cream and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar.
5. For croutons, toss cubed bread with olive oil and toast in a skillet or oven until golden.
6. Serve soup hot, topped with croutons and thyme if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add roasted red peppers for a smoky twist.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the croutons.

storage/reheating

Store soup in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Croutons are best made fresh but can be stored separately in an airtight container.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, roast them first for deeper flavor before blending.

How do I make it vegan?

Use vegetable broth and coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

Cool slightly and blend in batches in a countertop blender.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Add cream after thawing for best texture.

What type of bread works best for croutons?

Day-old sourdough or French bread yields the best crunch.

Is sugar necessary?

It balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Add to taste.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled cheese, chickpeas, or shredded chicken pair well.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, but use gluten-free bread for croutons if needed.

What herbs go well with tomato soup?

Basil, thyme, and parsley are excellent choices.

Can I serve this cold?

It’s best hot, but can be chilled for a gazpacho-style twist.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Soup with Croutons is a beloved comfort food that never goes out of style. With its velvety texture and classic flavor, it’s perfect for any time you crave a warm, satisfying meal.

Print