Indulge in a Comforting Culinary Symphony: The Ultimate Pepper Steak and Rice with Gravy Recipe
Pepper steak and rice with gravy is a classic dish that combines the savory flavors of steak, fluffy rice, and a velvety gravy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this blog post will guide you through every step of creating this delectable meal.
Ingredients for Pepper Steak and Rice with Gravy
For the Steak:
- 1 pound flank steak, cut into thin strips
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
In a bowl, combine the steak strips, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and black pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Cook the Steak
Heat a large skillet or griddle over high heat. Add the marinated steak strips and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet used to cook the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
5. Add the Steak Back to the Pan
Return the cooked steak strips to the pan with the gravy. Stir to coat the steak in the gravy.
6. Add Heavy Cream (Optional)
For a richer gravy, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream.
7. Season to Taste
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper as needed.
Plating and Serving
Serve the pepper steak over a bed of fluffy rice and spoon the gravy over both. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak and Rice with Gravy
- Use a high-quality steak for the best flavor.
- Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Cook the steak over high heat to create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcook the steak, or it will become tough.
- Use a good quality beef broth for a flavorful gravy.
- If the gravy is too thick, add more beef broth. If it’s too thin, add more flour.
- Serve the pepper steak and rice immediately for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Masterpiece
With these step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you can now create a mouthwatering pepper steak and rice with gravy that will impress your family and friends. This classic dish is a perfect blend of savory flavors, tender steak, and fluffy rice, all topped with a velvety gravy. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try.
What You Need to Know
1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cut of steak that you like. However, flank steak is a good choice because it is thin and cooks quickly.
2. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve the steak.
3. What can I serve with pepper steak and rice with gravy?
Pepper steak and rice with gravy can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.