The Best Caribbean Pepper Steak Recipe

Caribbean Pepper Steak is a flavorful, savory dish that blends tender sirloin steak with vibrant bell peppers, fragrant thyme, and aromatic garlic. This dish captures the bold and zesty flavors of the Caribbean, making it a delicious addition to any meal. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and seasoning salt gives the steak a unique depth of flavor, while the peppers and onions add a fresh crunch. The rich, slightly tangy sauce ties everything together, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of Caribbean cuisine or just looking to try something new, this pepper steak recipe is sure to impress. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to serve with rice, fried plantains, or a side of vegetables. The succulent, juicy steak paired with the savory sauce is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caribbean Pepper Steak recipe brings a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors to your plate. The tender sirloin steak absorbs the rich seasoning, while the colorful bell peppers and onions provide freshness and crunch. The dish is both simple and sophisticated, combining everyday ingredients with vibrant Caribbean spices. The cornstarch creates a smooth sauce that coats the steak and vegetables perfectly, giving it that extra touch of richness. With only a few ingredients, you can create an impressive meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and transport you to the islands. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy Caribbean-inspired flavors in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak
• Beef stock
• Green bell pepper
• Red bell pepper
• Onion
• Soy sauce
• Seasoning salt
• Cornstarch
• Ginger paste (or freshly grated ginger)
• Minced garlic
• Green onions
• Sprigs of thyme
• Cooking oil

Variations

1. Spicy Pepper Steak – Add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
2. Vegetarian Version – Swap the sirloin steak with tofu, tempeh, or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
3. Sweet and Savory – Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the sauce for a hint of sweetness.
4. Gravy-Like Sauce – Increase the cornstarch by ½ teaspoon for a thicker, gravy-like consistency.
5. Citrus Twist – Add a splash of lime or orange juice to the sauce for a refreshing citrus note.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Slice the sirloin steak into thin strips against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the beef stock, soy sauce, seasoning salt, cornstarch, and ginger paste. Stir well to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Return the cooked steak to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture, then add the thyme sprigs. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the steak and vegetables.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with chopped green onions and remove the thyme sprigs. Serve the Caribbean pepper steak hot with rice, fried plantains, or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Slice the steak thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Don’t overcook the steak, as it can become tough. Cook just until browned and juicy.
• Use fresh ginger for the most authentic flavor, though ginger paste can be a convenient substitute.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of ginger, soy sauce, or adding spicy peppers.
• Use a wok or large skillet to give the steak and vegetables enough room to stir-fry properly.

How to Serve

Caribbean Pepper Steak pairs perfectly with steamed white rice, coconut rice, or fried plantains. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. The rich sauce makes it ideal for soaking up with rice or bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Caribbean Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled leftover pepper steak in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the pepper steak in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin with flank steak or rib-eye, though sirloin is typically more tender and flavorful for this dish.

2. Can I use a different protein instead of beef?

You can use chicken, pork, or even shrimp as an alternative to beef for a variation of this recipe.

3. How can I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish spicier, add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers or more minced ginger. To reduce the heat, use less ginger or omit spicy peppers.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the amount of cornstarch by ½ teaspoon, or let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken naturally.

6. Can I prepare the steak in advance?

Yes, you can slice and marinate the steak a few hours ahead of time for even more flavor.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, zucchini, or even carrots to increase the vegetable content.

8. How can I make this dish sweeter?

For a sweeter version, add a bit of brown sugar or honey to the sauce mixture.

9. Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Fresh bell peppers are preferred, but you can use frozen peppers if needed, just be sure to thaw them first.

10. What should I serve this with?

Caribbean Pepper Steak pairs well with rice, fried plantains, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens.

Conclusion

The Best Caribbean Pepper Steak is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender steak with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. With its unique combination of spices, soy sauce, and ginger, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and can be customized to your taste preferences, making it the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you enjoy it with rice or plantains, this pepper steak will transport you to the tropics with every bite.

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