Pepper Steak Recipe with Rich and Savory Gravy
This recipe delivers a mouthwatering pepper steak with a thick, flavorful gravy, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll cover everything from selecting the right cut of beef to achieving that perfect gravy consistency. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
Choosing Your Beef: The Foundation of a Great Pepper Steak
The key to a fantastic pepper steak is starting with the right cut of beef. While many cuts work, sirloin steak, chuck steak, or flank steak are excellent choices. These cuts offer a good balance of tenderness and flavor, holding up well to the cooking process. Look for well-marbled beef for maximum juiciness. Avoid overly lean cuts, as they can become tough and dry.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs beef steak, cut into 1-inch thick strips (sirloin, chuck, or flank steak recommended)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, (any color), sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Pat the beef strips dry with paper towels. This helps them brown properly. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Browning the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the same skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Making the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until a smooth slurry forms.
Step 5: Combining Everything
Return the browned beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the gravy mixture over the beef and vegetables. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Serving Your Pepper Steak
Serve the pepper steak immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Pepper Steak and Gravy:
- Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the beef. This ensures proper browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking. Add more soy sauce for extra saltiness or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
- For a thicker gravy, use a little more cornstarch. For a thinner gravy, use less.
- Experiment with different vegetables. Mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli florets would be delicious additions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of steak?
A: Yes, but choose a cut that's not too lean, otherwise, it might become tough. Sirloin, chuck, and flank steak are recommended.
Q: How can I make the gravy smoother?
A: Make sure to whisk the flour and cornstarch mixture thoroughly before adding the beef broth to prevent lumps.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish just before cooking.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy-to-follow guide to creating a fantastic pepper steak with a rich and savory gravy. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us! Happy cooking!
