Preparing the Pepper Steak:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Beef: Add the beef sirloin slices to the skillet in batches, seasoning with black pepper, and sauté until just browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the bell peppers, onion, and garlic until they start to soften.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with black pepper.
Cooking the White Rice:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Making the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash and Mix: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving:
- Plate Your Meal: Serve a generous spoonful of pepper steak alongside a scoop of fluffy white rice and creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of textures and flavors will make for a satisfying and balanced meal.
Tips:
- Beef Cut: For the pepper steak, choosing a tender cut like sirloin ensures that the meat stays tender and flavorful. Slicing the beef against the grain also helps in making it more tender.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the pepper steak sauce to suit your taste preferences. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce new layers of flavor.
This Pepper Steak with White Rice and Mashed Potatoes meal is a testament to the comfort and satisfaction that well-prepared, simple ingredients can provide. Enjoy the rich, peppery sauce of the steak, the soft, fluffy rice, and the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes for a truly delightful dining experience.