Unlock The Secrets: How Long To Cook Pepper Steak Perfection In Your Instant Pot

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of tender pepper steak, effortlessly prepared in your trusty Instant Pot. This culinary guide will unveil the secrets of cooking this delectable dish, answering the burning question: “How long to cook pepper steak in Instant Pot?”

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation: The Art of Searing

1. Season the steak slices with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the Instant Pot using the “Sauté” function.
3. Sear the steak in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
4. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.

Deglazing: Bringing Out the Umami

1. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for 2 minutes.
2. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze any browned bits.

Marinade: Infusing the Steak with Flavor

1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
2. Add the steak slices to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Cooking: The Instant Pot Magic

1. Pour the marinated steak and any remaining marinade into the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
3. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for:

• 10 minutes for medium-rare
• 12 minutes for medium
• 15 minutes for medium-well

Natural Release: Preserving the Tenderness

1. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
2. Quick-release any remaining pressure.

Thickening the Sauce: A Culinary Touch

1. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
2. Select the “Sauté” function again and bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry.
4. Gradually whisk the slurry into the sauce and simmer until thickened.

Serving: A Culinary Masterpiece

1. Return the steak to the pot and toss to coat in the thickened sauce.
2. Serve the pepper steak over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Perfection

• Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the steak for optimal tenderness.
• Marinating the steak enhances its flavor and helps it cook more evenly.
• Don’t overcook the steak. Use the recommended cooking times to achieve the desired doneness.
• Add additional vegetables, such as mushrooms or carrots, to your pepper steak for a more vibrant dish.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: What cut of steak is best for pepper steak?
A: Flank steak is a popular cut known for its affordability and tenderness when cooked properly.

Q: Can I use other types of sauce?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce.

Q: How do I store leftover pepper steak?
A: Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use frozen steak?
A: Yes, you can use frozen steak. Simply thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What side dishes pair well with pepper steak?
A: Rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables are all excellent side dishes for pepper steak.