Hello, food enthusiasts! Liliane here, your go-to guide for transforming everyday meals into vibrant, healthy delights. Today, we’re taking a culinary trip to the Caribbean with a recipe that’s bold, flavorful, and sure to elevate your lunch or dinner table—The Best Caribbean Pepper Steak Recipe.
This dish combines tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a medley of island-inspired spices to create a meal that’s nothing short of sensational.
Let’s dive into the magic of this recipe and explore why it’s a must-try for every food lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion: The marinade and sauce bring together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of heat for a dish bursting with flavor.
- Perfect Balance: The sweetness of bell peppers complements the savory steak and the slight heat from Caribbean spices.
- Quick to Make: With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 15, this recipe is ideal for busy weekdays.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or even in a wrap for an exciting twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adjust to your heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound tender beef slices, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch combined with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced scotch bonnet pepper for added heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, allspice, cayenne pepper, garlic, and ginger. Add the sliced steak, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
As the steak marinates, cut the bell peppers and onion into thin, even strips. Chop the green onions and set everything aside. This vibrant mix will add both flavor and color to your dish.
3. Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
When the oil starts to shimmer, arrange the marinated steak in a single layer.Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a rich brown crust.
Once browned, take the steak out of the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still slightly crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Combine Everything
Return the steak to the skillet. Add the beef broth to the skillet and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats the steak and vegetables beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped cilantro and green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish. Don’t forget a lime wedge for that extra zesty kick!
Tips for the Best Caribbean Pepper Steak
- Slice the Steak Thinly: Cutting the steak against the grain into thin strips ensures tenderness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the steak in batches if necessary to avoid steaming it.
- Adjust the Heat: Customize the spiciness to suit your family’s taste by altering the cayenne and adding or omitting scotch bonnet peppers.
- Use Fresh Lime: Fresh lime juice brings a bright, authentic flavor to the dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Lunch
This Caribbean Pepper Steak is not only flavorful but also highly nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for lunch. Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a well-balanced meal that’s satisfying and energizing.
Looking for more exciting lunch recipes? Check out our Lunch Category for a variety of delicious, kid-approved meals that make mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
With its bold flavors, quick preparation, and visually stunning presentation, this Caribbean Pepper Steak recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Until next time, stay flavorful and adventurous in the kitchen.