Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice is a delicious and quick-to-make dish, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory yet light. The combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all smothered in a savory sauce with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy, makes for an irresistible meal. This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it not only tasty but also convenient for those on the go.
In this article, we will break down the ingredients, step-by-step directions, and some helpful tips to make your Beef Stir-Fry even more enjoyable. We will also address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and provide a conclusion to help wrap everything up.
Ingredients for Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice
To create this vibrant and flavorful Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice, you will need the following ingredients:
Beef:
- 1 lb beef sirloin (thinly sliced)
- Beef sirloin is the perfect cut for stir-fry because it is tender and cooks quickly. You can also use flank steak or rib-eye if desired, but sirloin is a great choice for this recipe.
Marinade:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor to the beef and serves as the base of the marinade.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Cornstarch helps tenderize the beef and creates a nice coating that allows the sauce to stick to the meat.
Stir-Fry Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Red bell pepper adds color and sweetness to the stir-fry. You can substitute it with other bell peppers if you prefer.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- The green bell pepper adds a touch of bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the red pepper.
- 1 small onion, sliced
- Onion enhances the overall flavor of the stir-fry and gives it a soft crunch when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Garlic adds a fragrant aroma and a sharp, savory taste to the dish.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Fresh ginger imparts a subtle spicy warmth that complements the beef and vegetables.
Sauce and Rice:
- ¼ cup beef broth
- Beef broth enhances the beef flavor and forms the base of the sauce.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- Oyster sauce adds a deep, savory richness to the stir-fry.
- 1 tbsp honey
- Honey provides a touch of sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the soy and oyster sauce.
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Black pepper adds a mild spiciness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- White rice serves as the base for the stir-fry, absorbing all the flavors from the beef and sauce.
Optional Garnishes:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- Green onions give the dish a fresh, slightly pungent taste, adding a final touch of brightness.
Directions and Preparation Method for Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice
Making Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice is a straightforward process, and it comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to prepare the dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by thinly slicing the beef sirloin into strips. Place the sliced beef into a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss the beef around to coat it evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the soy sauce and helps the cornstarch tenderize the meat while also forming a slight coating for a perfect stir-fry texture.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer. Stir-fry the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so the beef can sear properly. Once done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly tender but still crisp. This helps retain their natural sweetness and crunch.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the vegetables. Stir for about 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance and the ginger to infuse its warmth into the dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the beef broth, oyster sauce, honey, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat all the ingredients.
Step 6: Serve
Once the sauce has thickened and the beef is fully cooked, it’s time to serve. Spoon the stir-fry mixture over a bed of warm, cooked white rice. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While beef sirloin is ideal for stir-fries due to its tenderness, you can easily substitute it with chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce, and double-check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Broccoli, snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms are all great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose to ensure they remain crisp-tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the beef and vegetables separately and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking. Reheat the stir-fry mixture in a pan over medium heat and serve with freshly cooked rice.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Store the stir-fry mixture and rice separately in airtight containers. When ready to eat, defrost the stir-fry mixture in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a pan over medium heat before serving.
Conclusion
Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. With its savory beef, colorful vegetables, and perfectly balanced sauce, this dish offers a satisfying and healthy meal that the whole family will love. Whether you choose to add extra vegetables, switch up the protein, or make it gluten-free, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
With its ease of preparation, vibrant flavors, and wholesome ingredients, Beef Stir-Fry with Peppers and Rice is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for that extra touch of flavor and crunch!