Name: Peppery Beef and Shishito Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 pound sirloin or other steak, sliced into 1-inch-wide strips; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1/3 cup cool water; 2 tablespoons vegetable or other neutral oil, plus more as needed; 12 to 14 shishito peppers (about 4 ounces), stems removed; 1 tablespoon garlic paste or freshly grated garlic; 1 tablespoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger; 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper, plus more for serving if desired; Salt, about 1/2 teaspoon plus more to taste; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 4 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce (remaining from total); White rice, for serving

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Peppery Beef and Shishito Stir-Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender strips of steak are coated in a savory sauce, tossed with blistered shishito peppers, and seasoned with bold black pepper and garlic. Serve it over white rice for a satisfying meal that comes together in minutes.

Peppery Beef and Shishito Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 cup plus 4 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 pound sirloin or other steak, sliced into 1-inch-wide strips
2 tablespoons vegetable or other neutral oil, plus more as needed
12 to 14 shishito peppers (about 4 ounces), stems removed
1 tablespoon garlic paste or freshly grated garlic
1 tablespoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper, plus more for serving if desired
Salt
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
White rice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of the cornstarch, 4 teaspoons of the soy sauce, and all the toasted sesame oil until smooth. Add the steak strips and toss until thoroughly coated.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, stir the remaining 2 teaspoons cornstarch into 1/3 cup cool water; set aside.
Step 3: Heat the vegetable oil in a 10-inch wok or wide pot over high heat until hot, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the shishito peppers and cook, stirring, until they start to blister, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Working in batches if needed, add the steak strips to the wok in a single layer. Cook undisturbed until strips start to char, about 1 minute per side. Transfer cooked steak to the plate with the peppers.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic and ginger to the wok. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant and raw aroma dissipates. Stir in the black pepper and season with about ½ teaspoon salt. Return the steak and peppers to the wok.
Step 6: Add the rice vinegar and remaining 1/4 cup soy sauce, then pour in the cornstarch mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes shiny and coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately with white rice.

Tips & Variations

If you can’t find shishito peppers, substitute with mild green peppers or padron peppers for a similar flavor and texture.
For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil when cooking garlic and ginger.
To keep the steak tender, slice against the grain and avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking.
Use freshly grated garlic and ginger for a more vibrant and aromatic stir-fry.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the steak’s tenderness. Leftover stir-fry can also be served cold over salad greens for a different meal.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?

Yes, you can use flank steak, skirt steak, or ribeye as alternatives. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly and against the grain for best texture.

Are shishito peppers spicy?

Shishito peppers are generally mild with a slightly sweet flavor, but occasionally you may get one that’s unexpectedly spicy, which adds an exciting surprise to the dish.