This beef stir-fry with bell peppers and garlic sauce is the kind of recipe you turn to when you want big flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and onions come together in a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite. It is fast, satisfying, and perfect for busy evenings when you still want something that tastes carefully cooked.
The balance is what makes this dish work so well. The beef stays juicy and soft, the vegetables keep a slight crunch, and the garlic-forward sauce brings everything together with depth and warmth. Served with rice or noodles, it becomes a complete, comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the stir-fry
- 500 g beef, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped
- 200 ml beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Oil for cooking
Instructions
Marinate the beef
Place the sliced beef in a bowl. Add baking soda, rice vinegar, flour, and soy sauce. Mix until all pieces are evenly coated. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and improves its texture during cooking.
Sear the beef
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the beef in batches, spreading it out so it sears properly. Brown for 1 to 2 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
Build the flavor base
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add garlic, onion, and chili pepper. Stir-fry briefly until fragrant and slightly softened.
Cook the vegetables
Add the red and green bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, just until tender but still crisp. The vegetables should keep their color and texture.
Combine and sauce
Return the beef to the pan and mix well with the vegetables. Pour in the broth. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water, then add it to the pan along with the remaining soy sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Taste and serve
Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles. Optional garnishes include green onions or sesame seeds.
Why this recipe works
The quick marinade using baking soda ensures the beef stays soft even with high heat cooking. Stir-frying keeps the vegetables fresh and slightly crisp, while the garlic and soy sauce provide a deep, savory backbone. The cornstarch thickens the sauce just enough to cling to the ingredients without feeling heavy.
Storage and reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Avoid long microwave reheating, as it can dry out the beef.
Variations
- Add grated fresh ginger for extra warmth
- Increase chili for a spicier version
- Add broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for more vegetables
- Replace beef with chicken or tofu
- Add a small pinch of sugar for a sweet-savory balance
Serving suggestions
This stir-fry pairs best with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or egg noodles. For a lighter option, serve it with cauliflower rice or alongside a simple cucumber salad. A glass of iced green tea or a light lager complements the flavors well.
Inspiration
Stir-frying comes from classic Asian cooking techniques that focus on speed, heat, and balance. This dish follows those principles while staying accessible for home cooking. It is simple, adaptable, and reliable, making it an easy favorite for weeknight meals.
Beef stir-fry with bell peppers and garlic sauce is proof that quick cooking can still deliver depth, texture, and real comfort.
