Pepper Steak Recipe with Gravy: A Classic Comfort Dish

Ingredients

For the Steak

1. 1 ½ pounds of flank steak or sirloin steak: Choose a cut that balances tenderness and flavor. Flank steak is lean and flavorful, while sirloin provides a richer taste.
2. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for searing the steak to achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior.
3. 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness to the steak.
4. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the steak’s flavor with its complex, tangy profile.
5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor.
6. 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild taste without overpowering the dish.
7. 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives the steak its signature peppery kick.
8. ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the overall flavor of the steak.

For the Gravy

1. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to form the gravy base.
2. 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
4. 1 cup beef broth: Forms the liquid base of the gravy, contributing a rich, savory taste.
5. ¼ cup soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the gravy.
6. 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 
7. 2 tablespoons water is used as a thickening agent to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency.
8. 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adjust the spiciness of the gravy.
9. ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the gravy.
10. 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Add an herbal note if desired.
11. 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Add a touch of color and freshness for garnish.

Preparing the Steak

1. Choose the Right Cut

   For pepper steak, flank steak, and sirloin steak are excellent choices due to their flavor and tenderness. Flank steak, when sliced thinly against the grain, provides a more tender bite, while sirloin offers a richer flavor.

2. Season the Steak

   Start by seasoning the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the beef without overpowering it. For an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the steak in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

3. Searing the Steak

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak to the skillet. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. After searing, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Making the Gravy

1. Sautéing Aromatics

   In the same skillet used for the steak, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, careful not to let it burn.

2. Building the Base

   Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds a depth of flavor to the gravy. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

3. Thick the gravy

   Stir in the cornstarch mixture (cornstarch dissolved in water).Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gravy has thickened to your liking. If the gravy becomes too thick, add more beef broth to reach the desired consistency.

4. Seasoning the Gravy

   Add ground black pepper and salt to taste to the gravy. For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir well to combine.

Assembling the Dish

1. Slicing the Steak:

   Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew.

2. Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter or individual plates:

   Spoon the hot pepper gravy over the steak, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

3. Accompaniments

   Pepper steak pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered noodles. Steamed vegetables or a simple salad can contrast the rich flavors of the steak and gravy.

The perfect pepper steak involves techniques and tips for tender, flavorful results. Here’s how to make sure your dish turns out just right:

1. Choose the Right Cut: Due to their flavor and texture, flank steak and sirloin are ideal for pepper steak. Flank steak should be sliced thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Sirloin is slightly richer in flavor and also works well for this dish.
2. Proper Seasoning: Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper before cooking. If you have time, marinating the steak in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce can add depth of flavor. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
3. Searing Technique: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat before adding the steak. Use vegetable oil with a high smoke point to achieve a good sear. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare result. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent proper browning.
4. Rest the Steak: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
5. Gravy Consistency: Use the browned bits left in the skillet from cooking the steak for a rich, flavorful gravy. After adding the beef broth and soy sauce, let it simmer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with additional black pepper and salt if needed.
6. Slice Against the Grain: Slice the rested steak against the grain to ensure each piece is tender and easy to chew. This technique breaks down the muscle fibers, making the steak more enjoyable.

Suggestions:

Serve the pepper steak with side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to complement the rich, savory gravy flavors. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can provide a refreshing balance.By following these tips, you can make a juicy, flavorful pepper steak that will impress anyone at your table.

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