Beef with Peppers and Onion
Introduction
Beef with Peppers and Onion is a traditional and versatile dish that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients. Its origins are influenced by Asian cuisine, especially Chinese and Thai, where the use of sauces like soy and oyster sauce is key to enhancing umami in dishes. However, it is also a very popular dish in Latin American and Mediterranean cuisine, where peppers and onions are frequently used to enhance the flavor of the meat.
This dish stands out for its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and spices , making it a healthy and delicious choice for any occasion. The beef, cooked over high heat, remains juicy and tender, while the bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. The lightly caramelized onion complements the dish with a soft texture and a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts with the other ingredients.
Another great advantage of this recipe is its quick preparation . In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy a homemade dish with the taste of a professional kitchen. It’s ideal for family lunches, special dinners, or even as a takeout option. Plus, it can be served with white rice, noodles, or even in omelets, adapting to different tastes and culinary preferences.
In this recipe, we’ll explore the step-by-step process for achieving perfectly seasoned Beef with Peppers and Onion , with an ideal texture and irresistible flavor. By following a few key tips, we’ll achieve a dish that will not only delight the palate but also allow us to enjoy a home-cooked meal full of aromas and tradition.
History and Origin of the Recipe: “Beef with Peppers and Onion”
Beef with Peppers and Onion is a dish that combines Asian and Latin American influences, featuring simple yet flavorful ingredients. This stir-fry of meat with vegetables and sauce is very popular in various cultures, especially in Chinese, Peruvian, and Mexican cuisine.
Asian Roots: The Influence of Stir-Frying
One of the key elements of this recipe is the stir-fry technique (rapid sautéing over high heat), a traditional cooking method in Chinese cuisine. Introduced to Latin America by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, this technique preserves the crispness of the vegetables and the succulence of the meat.
The sauces used in this recipe, such as soy sauce and oyster sauce , are also typical of Asian cuisine and provide a deep umami flavor , balancing the sweetness of the peppers and onion.
The Latin American Adaptation: Flavors and Traditions
In Latin America, especially in Peru and Mexico , Chinese influence gave rise to iconic dishes such as Lomo Saltado , a Peruvian classic that mixes beef, onion, tomato and soy sauce.
In the Mexican version of Beef with Peppers and Onion , it’s common to add local spices like cumin , dried chilies, or even a touch of lemon juice to give it a more vibrant and spicy flavor. Some variations are used as a filling in tacos or fajitas , making it a versatile and adaptable dish.
Evolution and Popularity
Today, this dish is enjoyed in many parts of the world due to its ease of preparation, nutritional value, and delicious balance of flavors . It can be served with white rice , stir-fried noodles , tortillas, or even on its own as a low-carb option.
Beef with Peppers and Onion is a recipe that reflects the fusion of cultures and culinary techniques, creating a dish that conquers palates with its combination of sweetness, saltiness and spicy seasoning .
Discover how to prepare this flavorful classic and surprise everyone with this easy and delicious recipe!
Estimated time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3-4
Ingredients
For the meat:
- 500g beef fillet, cut into thin strips (you can use loin, sirloin, or skirt steak)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, helps make the meat juicier)
For vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips (optional, adds color and sweetness)
- 1 large onion, cut into strips
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional, but enhances the flavor)
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for a more intense color and flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar (you can substitute with honey for a milder touch)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water (to thicken the sauce)
Other ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (sesame, sunflower or corn)
- Sesame seeds and chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Cut the meat into thin strips, against the grain to make it more tender.
- Mix the meat with salt, pepper, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Wash the peppers well, remove the seeds and cut them into thin strips.
- Cut the onion into thin strips.
- Chop the garlic and grate the ginger (if using).
2. Seal the meat:
- In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat.
- Add the meat in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
- Remove the meat from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the other tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until they release their aroma.
- Add the peppers and onion, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the meat and sauce:
- Add the meat back to the pan.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, and beef broth or water.
- Mix well and let cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Thicken the sauce:
- Dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the pan.
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables well.
6. Serve:
- Serve hot over white rice, fried rice, or noodles.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips for a Better Result
Marinade: If you have time, marinate the meat for 30 minutes or more for extra flavor.
Quick Sear: Cook the meat in batches to prevent overcooking and the release of too much liquid.
Perfect Cut: Use a sharp knife and cut the meat against the grain for extra tenderness.
Spicy Version: Add some dried chili, chili flakes, or Sriracha sauce if you like it spicy.
Substitutions: You can swap the beef for chicken or tofu for a different version.
Enjoy this homemade recipe full of color and flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions about the “Beef with Peppers and Onions” Recipe
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! Although the original recipe uses beef, you can substitute it with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Tender cuts like fillet, sirloin, or skirt steak are ideal because they cook quickly and remain juicy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! You can add mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, or broccoli to give it more flavor and nutrients.
How do I prevent meat from becoming tough?
- Slice the meat into thin strips against the grain to make it more tender.
- Marinate it with a little soy sauce and cornstarch before cooking.
- Don’t overcook it , just a few minutes so it doesn’t lose its juiciness.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook the meat and vegetables and store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Just warm them in a pan before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
- White rice or fried rice for an Asian version.
- Stir-fried noodles for an original variation.
- Tortillas or fajitas for a Mexican touch.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight bag. To reheat it, use a pan with a little water or broth to restore its original texture.
Texture and Flavor
Beef, when sautéed with peppers and onions, has a juicy and tender texture , especially when used with a suitable cut such as fillet or skirt steak. The peppers add a crunchy , sweet touch, while the lightly caramelized onion imparts a mild, sweet flavor . The combination is balanced between salty, sweet, and umami , with a delicious smoky aroma when cooked at a high temperature.
Consumer Context
- It is served as a main dish at lunch or dinner.
- Commonly accompanied by white rice, corn tortillas or potatoes .
- Popular in Mexican, Spanish, and Latin American home cooking .
- It is also found in Tex-Mex fast food restaurants or in more elaborate versions in gourmet restaurants.
Visual Aspect
The dish is colorful and vibrant : the golden meat contrasts with the bright red, green, and yellow of the peppers and the translucent white of the onions. It’s served hot, giving off an intense and appetizing aroma. When served, it’s sometimes sprinkled with fresh parsley or accompanied by lemon slices.
Curiosities
- In many cultures, the trio of meat, peppers and onion represents the worker’s meal , due to its high energy value and easy preparation.
- Colored peppers ( red, green, yellow) are the same fruit at different stages of ripeness, which is why their flavor varies from more bitter (green) to sweeter (red).
- This recipe is the basis for preparations such as fajitas in Tex-Mex cuisine.
- The combination of peppers and onions with meat is so old that similar versions have been found since medieval times in Europe, adapted to local ingredients.
Estimated Nutritional Value (per 250g serving)
- Calories: 280–350 kcal
- Protein: 25–30 g
- Fat: 18–22 g (depending on the cut of meat)
- Carbohydrates: 8–10 g
- Fiber: 2–3 g
- Vitamins: A, C, B6, B12
- Minerals: Iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium
Additional Benefits and Interesting Facts
- Source of high-quality protein:
Beef provides all the essential amino acids needed for muscle maintenance. - Rich in heme iron:
Ideal for preventing iron deficiency anemia , since iron from meat is better absorbed than that from plant sources. - Antioxidant content:
Peppers are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotenes , which help strengthen the immune system and eye health. - Good for energy metabolism:
Thanks to its content of B-complex vitamins , essential for energy production. - Easy to adapt:
You can vary the colors of the peppers, add mushrooms, or use red onion for a different flavor profile. - Chef’s Tip:
For a perfect texture, don’t overcook the meat ; a few minutes of high heat is enough to seal it and keep it juicy.
Enjoy your meal and enjoy cooking!
Conclusion
This Beef with Peppers and Onion recipe is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare option, perfect for any occasion. Its combination of intense flavors, thanks to the juicy beef, colorful peppers, and caramelized onion, makes it a dish full of aroma and texture.
This dish stands out not only for its exquisite flavor but also for its nutritional value . The beef provides high-quality protein and iron, while the peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and improve overall health.
Another great advantage of this recipe is its versatility . It can be served with rice, noodles, or even omelets to suit different tastes and culinary preferences. It’s also an excellent base to customize with other ingredients, such as mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli, allowing for a wide variety of combinations.
To ensure the best results, it’s important to choose a good cut of meat and cook it properly to maintain its tenderness and flavor. It’s also recommended to use high-quality sauces, such as soy sauce and oyster sauce, to enhance the umami and give depth to the dish.
In conclusion, this dish is not only bursting with flavor, but also a balanced and easy-to-make meal at home. Whether for a family meal or a special dinner, Beef with Peppers and Onion is a classic choice that never disappoints.