Name: Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Beef:; 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; Vegetables:; 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas or green beans; 1 medium onion, sliced; Aromatics:; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger); Sauce:; 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for flavor); Garnish:; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds

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Have you ever wondered how a simple stir-fry can elevate your weeknight dinners into something extraordinary? The secret lies in the perfect blend of flavors, and nothing does it better than Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry. This dish not only offers a burst of flavor but also comes together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. With its savory garlic and zesty pepper notes, this recipe will challenge your perception of quick meals being bland or uninspired.

In this post, we’ll explore how to create a mouthwatering Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will make your cooking experience enjoyable!

Ingredients List

To prepare a delightful Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry, gather the following ingredients:

Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 1 medium onion, sliced
Aromatics:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for flavor)
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Substitutions:
- Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein.
- Swap vegetables based on preference; carrots and mushrooms work well too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This marination will help tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the beef is marinating, slice the bell pepper, onion, and prepare the broccoli and snap peas. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until browned, then remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the remaining soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss everything together to coat the beef and vegetables evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of one serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	280
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	3g
Protein	25g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
Vegetable Boost: Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to increase fiber and nutrients.
Lean Cuts: Opt for lean cuts of beef, like eye of round or top round, to cut down on fat.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry with these serving ideas:

Over Rice: Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
Noodle Bowl: Toss with rice noodles or soba for a different texture.
Wraps: Use lettuce leaves to create wraps for a fresh, low-carb option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much beef or vegetables at once can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
Not Prepping Ahead: Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook for a seamless experience.
Cooking at Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that signature sear and flavor. Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stir-fry for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

In summary, Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before marinating.

2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Coconut aminos or liquid aminos are great alternatives for a soy-free option.

3. How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy pepper varieties.