Beef Stir Fry with Bell Peppers Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

Beef stir fry is a vibrant, savory dish that combines tender beef with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, all cooked together in a delicious, tangy sauce. It’s a classic dish that is not only quick to make but also highly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing a family dinner, this recipe provides both flavor and convenience in just 25 minutes. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step on how to make a Beef Stir Fry with Bell Peppers that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of beef (flank steak or sirloin works well)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chili flakes for some heat
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Beef:
   Start by slicing the beef against the grain into thin strips. This helps the beef cook quickly while staying tender. Flank steak or sirloin are great options for stir fry. Once sliced, toss the beef in 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Set it aside for about 10-15 minutes to marinate. This will allow the beef to absorb the flavors while the cornstarch helps thicken the sauce later.
2. Stir Fry Vegetables:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, carrot, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes, just enough to cook the vegetables while keeping them crisp-tender and vibrant in color. You want to retain their natural crunch for a perfect texture. Once done, transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Increase the heat to high and add the marinated beef strips. Stir fry the beef for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the beef is browned on all sides. The high heat is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelization on the beef.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger:
   Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir them into the beef and cook for another 30 seconds, until they release their fragrant aroma. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
5. Flavor the Stir Fry:
   Now, add the hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce to the pan. Stir well to coat the beef in the sauce. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, you can also add a pinch of chili flakes at this stage. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for another minute.
6. Combine and Finish:
   Add the cooked vegetables back into the skillet with the beef. Toss everything together gently to combine and allow the stir fry to heat through. The vegetables should be well coated in the flavorful sauce, and the beef should be tender and juicy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   To finish, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. This adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Serve your Beef Stir Fry with steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Recipe Notes:

• Beef Selection:
  Choose tender cuts of beef like flank steak, sirloin, or rib-eye for this stir fry. These cuts are quick to cook and remain tender when stir-fried. Avoid using tougher cuts like chuck or round as they may become chewy.
• Vegetable Variations:
  While this recipe uses bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, feel free to swap in other vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, snow peas, baby corn, or zucchini also work well in stir fry.
• Sauce Adjustments:
  If you prefer a sweeter stir fry, increase the amount of hoisin sauce. For a tangier flavor, add an extra tablespoon of rice vinegar. You can also add a bit of sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Time and Serving:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Serves: 4 people

Storage:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The stir fry can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. Just be sure not to overcook it when reheating, as the beef can become tough.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

• Cutting the Beef Thin:
  Thin slices of beef cook faster and remain more tender. Try to cut against the grain to avoid tough pieces.
• High Heat Cooking:
  Stir frying works best when done on high heat. This helps the beef caramelize and sear while cooking the vegetables to a perfect crisp-tender texture.
• Prep Ahead:
  If you’re short on time, you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time. Slice the beef, chop the vegetables, and mix the sauce earlier in the day to cut down on cooking time when you’re ready to make the stir fry.

How to Serve:

Beef Stir Fry is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Serve it with steamed rice (white or brown), noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also add a side of sautéed spinach or a fresh salad to balance the meal.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife for slicing the beef
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Small bowls for the sauce mixture

FAQs:

Final Thoughts:

Beef Stir Fry with Bell Peppers is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. The tender beef combined with crisp vegetables and a tangy sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s versatile enough to add in your favorite veggies or protein substitutes, making it a dish you can return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this Beef Stir Fry recipe delivers bold flavors and a touch of freshness in every bite.