This Puerto Rican Pepper Steak recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of Caribbean cooking to your table. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender flank steak with colorful peppers and aromatic spices. The unique blend of sofrito and garlic makes each bite a delightful experience, ensuring it will be a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sofrito, garlic, and spices creates a rich and savory profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this dish even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, with vegetables, or as part of a larger feast; this recipe adapts to any dining occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful peppers and garnishes make for an eye-catching plate that’s sure to impress guests.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will save you time and allow you to focus on creating a delicious Puerto Rican Pepper Steak.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Large pot
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for marinating the steak, ensuring all flavors blend well.
• Large pot: Provides ample space for cooking the steak along with vegetables without overcrowding.
• Stirring spoon: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly while cooking for even flavor distribution.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

• 2-3 pounds flank steak (sliced thin)
• 1/3 cup sofrito
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 8 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 2 tablespoons oil (divided)
• 10 dashes Maggi liquid seasoning (or 2 tsps salt)
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon adobo (all purpose seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons browning or burnt sugar for color (optional)

For the Vegetables

• 1/2 red bell pepper (sliced thin)
• 1/2 green bell pepper (sliced thin)
• 1/2 red onion (sliced thin)
• 3 bay leaf

For Cooking

• 1-2 cups water
• Freshly chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for garnish)

How to Make Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. In a large bowl, combine the flank steak with cilantro, sofrito, garlic, 1 tablespoon of oil, Maggi seasoning, chicken bouillon seasoning, oregano, adobo, black pepper, and cumin.
2. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Sauté the Steak

1. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated steak to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until natural juices are released.
3. If using browning sauce for color, stir it in now. Add sliced peppers and onions; mix until combined.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

1. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the meat completely.
2. Add bay leaves and stir occasionally while cooking over medium heat until water reduces by half.
3. Lower heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low for about an hour or until meat is tender.

Enjoy your flavorful Puerto Rican Pepper Steak with your choice of sides!

How to Serve Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Serving Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the meal memorable. Here are some delicious ways to present this dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the pepper steak over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce.

With Plantains

• Fried or sweet plantains add a touch of sweetness that balances the spices in the pepper steak.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced avocado on top brings creaminess and a fresh taste, complementing the hearty beef.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with lime dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich steak.

On Tortillas

• Make delicious tacos by placing the pepper steak into warm tortillas, topped with onions and cilantro.

With Lime Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens flavors and adds a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

To ensure your Puerto Rican Pepper Steak turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight enhances flavor penetration, resulting in a more succulent dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, cilantro, and peppers bring vibrant flavors compared to dried counterparts.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the black pepper or adobo seasoning to suit your taste.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the steak rest before slicing. This helps retain juices within the meat for better texture.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook until tender but avoid overcooking; this keeps the steak juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Pairing side dishes with Puerto Rican Pepper Steak can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Moro Rice
   A mix of rice and beans cooked together, adding depth and flavor that complements the steak beautifully.

2. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots provide a healthy balance and vibrant color on your plate.

3. Fried Yucca
   Crispy fried yucca offers a delightful crunch that pairs well with the tender beef.

4. Corn Salad
   A refreshing corn salad with tomatoes and lime adds sweetness and acidity to enhance your meal.

5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with rich sauces.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity to balance the heartiness of the pepper steak.

7. Sweet Potato Fries
   These naturally sweet fries contrast well against savory flavors while adding an element of comfort food.

8. Black Beans
   Simple seasoned black beans are nutritious and offer complementary flavors alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Puerto Rican Pepper Steak, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the steak long enough can result in less flavor. Aim for at least one hour or overnight for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Monitor cooking time closely and adjust as needed for tenderness.
• Neglecting to Add Enough Liquid: Insufficient water can lead to dry meat. Always ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the meat while cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality meat or seasonings can diminish the dish’s flavor. Invest in good ingredients for a better outcome.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh cilantro for garnish can affect presentation and flavor. Always use fresh herbs for added brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium until hot, usually 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Puerto Rican Pepper Steak that may help you as you prepare this dish.

What is Puerto Rican Pepper Steak?

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a flavorful dish made with marinated flank steak, peppers, and onions. It’s often served with rice or pasta.

Can I use different cuts of meat?

Yes! You can substitute flank steak with cuts like sirloin or round steak if desired. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make it spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or using spicy seasoning blends during marination.

What should I serve with Puerto Rican Pepper Steak?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad to balance the flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak in advance and cook it just before serving for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that showcases bold flavors and tender meat. It’s versatile and can be customized with various vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Print

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Caribbean cooking straight to your dining table. This easy-to-make recipe features tender flank steak marinated in aromatic sofrito, garlic, and spices, then sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions. Each bite is bursting with savory goodness, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it over fluffy rice, with fresh plantains, or in warm tortillas for a delightful meal that will impress everyone at the table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–3 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced)
• 1/3 cup sofrito
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 8 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 2 tablespoons oil (divided)
• 10 dashes Maggi liquid seasoning (or 2 teaspoons salt)
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ red bell pepper (sliced thin)
• ½ green bell pepper (sliced thin)
• ½ red onion (sliced thin)
• 3 bay leaves
• 1–2 cups water
• Freshly chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine flank steak with cilantro, sofrito, garlic, one tablespoon of oil, Maggi seasoning, chicken bouillon seasoning, oregano, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Heat the remaining oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add marinated steak and sauté for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the meat completely. Add bay leaves and stir occasionally while cooking until the water reduces by half.
4. Lower heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low for about an hour until the meat is tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, let the steak marinate overnight. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Adjust spice levels according to your preference.