How To Make Pepper Steak From Scratch: A Culinary Symphony For The Senses

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of homemade pepper steak, a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a culinary adventure, showcasing the art of crafting this iconic dish from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, black pepper, and salt.
2. Marinate the Steak: Add the sliced steak to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
4. Sauté the Veggies: Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and add it to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the Marinade: Pour the remaining marinade over the steak and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the steak is cooked through.
7. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve: Serve the pepper steak immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Tender and Flavorful Steak:

• Slice the steak thinly: This will ensure even cooking and tenderness.
• Marinate the steak: Marinating helps tenderize the steak and infuse it with flavor.
• Cook the steak over high heat: This will quickly sear the steak and lock in the juices.
• Don’t overcook the steak: Overcooked steak will become tough and chewy.

Variations:

• Spicy Pepper Steak: Add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or chopped chili peppers to the marinade.
• Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce in the marinade.
• Pineapple Pepper Steak: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple to the skillet along with the vegetables.

Accompaniments:

• Rice: Fluffy white rice is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the savory sauce.
• Noodles: Egg noodles or stir-fried noodles add a chewy texture to the dish.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or asparagus provide a healthy and colorful side.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of making pepper steak from scratch is a culinary triumph that will impress your family and friends. By following these step-by-step instructions and embracing the tips and variations provided, you can create a tantalizing dish that will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak, such as sirloin or skirt steak. However, flank steak is the traditional cut for pepper steak.

2. How long can I marinate the steak?
You can marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Longer marinating times will result in a more tender steak.

3. What is the best way to thicken the sauce?
The best way to thicken the sauce is to make a cornstarch slurry by whisking together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add the slurry to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.

4. How do I know when the steak is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135°F (57°C). For medium, the internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the steak and vegetables according to the instructions, then let cool completely. Store the steak and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the steak and vegetables over medium heat until warmed through.