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Instant Pot Pepper Steak: A Quick and Delicious Family Favourite

Pepper steak is a classic dish that has become a favourite in many households, and with the advent of the Instant Pot, preparing this mouth-watering meal has never been easier. This one-pot wonder can transform your weeknight dinner from a tedious chore into a quick and delicious experience.

What is Pepper Steak?

Pepper steak is a hearty stir-fry that typically features tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savoury sauce. Its origins can be traced back to Asian cuisine, where it is often prepared with a variety of sauces such as soy sauce and oyster sauce. The dish is popular for its bold flavours and the balance it strikes between protein and vegetables.

The Magic of the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot isn’t just a pressure cooker; it’s a multi-functional kitchen marvel that allows for sautéing, slow cooking, steaming, and even making yogurt. For busy families, it saves not just time but also the hassle of dealing with multiple pots and pans. The pressure cooking function ensures that the meat is tenderised quickly while locking in all the flavours of the sauce and vegetables.

Ingredients

To make a classic Instant Pot pepper steak, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g beef steak (such as flank or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 2 bell peppers (one red and one green), sliced
• 1 cup beef broth (or stock)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by setting the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Brown the Beef: Add the sliced beef to the pot, seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until the beef is browned on all sides, which should take about 5 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the bell peppers, beef broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Ensure that the beef and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.

4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

5. Thicken the Sauce: Open the lid, and switch the Instant Pot back to the sauté function. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Serve: Your pepper steak is now ready to be served! Spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, and enjoy the delightful medley of flavours.

Tips for Success

• Cutting the Beef: For tender strips, always slice the beef against the grain. This helps ensure that the meat remains tender.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for extra colour and nutrients.
• Marinating: If time permits, marinate the beef in soy sauce for an hour before cooking. This enhances the flavour even more.
• Storage: Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well if you want to meal prep ahead of time.

Conclusion

Instant Pot pepper steak is a fantastic addition to any family dinner table. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but the end result is a delicious, flavourful dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe may soon become a staple in your own home. Enjoy the goodness of pepper steak without the fuss, and savour the smiles around your dinner table!

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