30-Minute Pepper Steak Recipe with Chicken Broth
Minute,Pepper,Steak,Recipe,with,Chicken,BrothPepper Steak
Hey there, food enthusiasts! Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Do you crave a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? If so, you've come to the right place! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that's so quick and easy, it'll have you saying, "Is that all it takes?" Keep reading to discover the secrets to a mouthwatering 30-Minute Pepper Steak Recipe with Chicken Broth - you won't regret it!
30-Minute Pepper Steak Recipe with Chicken Broth: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Craving a satisfying and flavorful meal that doesn't require hours of cooking? Look no further than this 30-minute pepper steak recipe with chicken broth! This easy-to-follow recipe delivers tender, juicy steak with a rich, savory sauce, all in a fraction of the time. Let's dive in!
Why Use Chicken Broth in Pepper Steak?
You might be wondering why chicken broth is the secret ingredient in this recipe. Chicken broth adds a surprising depth of flavor to the dish and elevates the sauce beyond just a simple gravy. It also helps create a smoother, creamier texture without using heavy cream or butter.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb. flank steak (or your favorite steak cut)
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Get Started: Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Searing the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring a nice crust forms. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
- Sautéing the Veggies: Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
- Making the Sauce: Whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
- Bringing it Together: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the steak back to the pan, ensuring it's submerged in the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Serving: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Pour the sauce over the steak and serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Steak Selection: Flank steak is a budget-friendly choice for this recipe. However, feel free to use any steak cut you prefer, like sirloin, ribeye, or even tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Tenderizing the Steak: To further enhance tenderness, marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Gradually whisk the slurry into the sauce while it simmers, until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Variations on the Recipe: Experiment with adding different vegetables to this recipe, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
Mastering the Perfect Pepper Steak
The Importance of the Right Cut
Choosing the right steak cut is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful pepper steak. Here's a breakdown of popular choices:
- Flank Steak: A budget-friendly option with great flavor, but it can be tough if overcooked. Marinating or tenderizing is recommended.
- Sirloin Steak: A versatile cut with a good balance of tenderness and flavor.
- Ribeye Steak: Known for its marbling and rich flavor, but it can be pricier.
- Tenderloin Steak: The most tender cut, but it's also the most expensive and can be prone to overcooking.
Perfecting the Sear
A good sear adds flavor and texture to your pepper steak. Follow these tips for achieving a beautiful crust:
- Use High Heat: A hot skillet or pan ensures a quick and efficient sear.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give the steak enough space to cook evenly.
- Don't Move It Too Much: Resist the urge to constantly flip the steak, allowing it to develop a crust before flipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long should I cook the steak?
The cooking time for pepper steak depends on the cut and thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 2-3 minutes per side, with an additional 5-7 minutes of simmering in the sauce.
2. Can I use a different type of broth?
While chicken broth is recommended, you can also use beef broth or even vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful that the flavor of the sauce will be slightly different.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it's best to sear and cook the steak just before serving.
4. What are some good side dishes for pepper steak?
Pepper steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as:
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or fried rice
- Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, potato wedges, or baked potatoes
- Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, green beans, or asparagus
5. Can I freeze pepper steak?
It's best to enjoy pepper steak fresh, but you can freeze the cooked steak and sauce separately for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Conclusion
This pepper steak recipe with chicken broth is a culinary shortcut for busy weeknights. With its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and flavor-packed sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that will become a go-to in your kitchen! So next time you're craving a satisfying and easy weeknight meal, give this recipe a try. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
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And there you have it! A quick and flavorful 30-minute pepper steak recipe that's sure to impress. The secret lies in using chicken broth to create a rich and savory sauce that complements the tender steak beautifully. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to add your own personal touch.
Remember, the key to a successful pepper steak is searing the meat properly. This ensures a flavorful crust and juicy interior. Don't overcrowd the pan when searing, as this will result in steaming instead of browning. Also, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute for a more tender and flavorful result.
So, next time you're looking for a satisfying and easy weeknight meal, try out this 30-minute pepper steak recipe. It's a surefire way to please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy! And as always, if you have any questions or tips, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy cooking!