Savory Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry in 20 Minutes
This stir-fry is a flavor and aroma powerhouse! Tender beef and colorful bell peppers come together in a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying and healthy meal on the table.
The Key to Speedy Success
The secret to this speedy stir-fry is having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you heat up the pan. This allows for high-heat cooking that keeps the beef juicy and the vegetables crisp-tender.
Marinate for Extra Flavor (Optional)
For an extra layer of taste, consider marinating the beef strips for 5-10 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This step is optional, but it can add a nice depth of flavor.
Choose Your Beef Cut
While nearly any cut of beef will work in this recipe, sirloin is a popular option due to its leanness and tenderness. Flank steak or skirt steak are other good choices, but they benefit from marinating to tenderize them further.
Customizable and Delicious
This stir-fry is easily adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to:
- Change the Veggies: Use different colored bell peppers, add broccoli florets, snap peas, or baby corn.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chilies for a kick.
- Make it Saucier: Increase the cornstarch in the sauce for a thicker consistency.
What to Serve With It
This stir-fry pairs perfectly with cooked white or brown rice, noodles, or even crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Leftovers and Storage
This stir-fry reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Let’s Get Cooking!
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tablespoon minced ginger
- 6 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ pounds beef, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons seasoning powder
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers, any color, sliced into strips
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Beef: Season the beef strips with salt, seasoning powder, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together the broth, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
- Heat Up the Pan: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Sear the Beef: Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the bell peppers, onions, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the Beef: Add the cooked beef back to the pan and toss to combine.
- Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve the stir-fry immediately over cooked rice, noodles, or with bread.
Nutritional Information:
This recipe is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Keep in mind that nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 475kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 36g
This recipe is a keeper! It’s quick, easy, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite. So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this delicious stir-fry in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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