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1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 large onion, sliced
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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2 teaspoons cornstarch
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3 tablespoons water
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Salt to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Preparation
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Marinate the beef:
In a bowl, mix sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients. -
Prepare the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, water, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Set aside. -
Stir-fry the beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned but not overcooked — about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
Cook the vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Sauté onions and peppers for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. -
Combine everything:
Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and veggies. -
Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
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Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
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Avoid freezing as the peppers may become mushy upon thawing.
Variants
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Spicy version: Add sliced red chili or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce for heat.
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Ginger twist: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger with the garlic.
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Mushroom mix-in: Toss in sliced mushrooms for a heartier dish.
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Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the hoisin sauce.
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Chicken or tofu version: Substitute beef with chicken breast or firm tofu, and follow the same steps.
FAQ
Q: What cut of beef works best?
A: Flank steak, sirloin, or top round are ideal — just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers?
A: Yes, though they may be softer. Fresh is preferred for better texture and crunch.
Q: What’s the secret to getting a good sear on the beef?
A: Cook in batches and use high heat. Overcrowding the pan steams the meat instead of browning it.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Not by default — but it can be! Just use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your other sauces are gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Yes — prep the meat, chop veggies, and mix the sauce up to a day ahead for a super quick weeknight dinner.