Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Name: Puerto Rican Pepper Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 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 seasoning; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ red bell pepper (sliced thin); ½ green bell pepper (sliced thin); ½ red onion (sliced thin)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

January 29, 2026

Updated:

January 29, 2026

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The Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Its rich combination of seasonings and tender flank steak creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe stands out with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice for a complete meal that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The blend of sofrito, spices, and peppers creates an irresistible taste that will excite your palate.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a breeze, even for beginners.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving as a main course or pairing with rice, this dish fits various occasions from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have the right tools at hand. Using the appropriate equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large bowl
Large pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large bowl: Ideal for marinating the steak and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Large pot: Essential for evenly cooking the steak while retaining moisture.
Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the steak and vegetables easier and safer.

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

For Color and Vegetables

2 tablespoons browning or burnt sugar for color (optional)
1/2 red bell pepper (sliced thin)
1/2 green bell pepper (sliced thin)
1/2 red onion (sliced thin)

Other Ingredients

3 bay leaves
1-2 cups water

For Garnish

Freshly chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for garnish)

How to Make Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Add the sliced flank steak to a large bowl. Combine it with the cilantro, sofrito, crushed garlic, 1 tablespoon of oil, Maggi seasoning, chicken bouillon seasoning, oregano, adobo, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well to ensure every piece of meat is coated in the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Step 2: Sauté the Meat

In a large pot set over medium-high heat, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the marinated steak along with its juices. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the natural juices are released. If using browning sauce for added color, stir it in now. Add in the sliced bell peppers and red onion; mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Pour enough water into the pot to cover the meat completely. Add bay leaves to enhance flavor. Cook over medium heat while stirring occasionally until the water reduces by half. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for about an hour or until the meat is tender.

Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican Pepper Steak with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges!

How to Serve Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Serving Puerto Rican Pepper Steak can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Rice

White Rice – The classic choice that soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
Yellow Rice – Adds a vibrant color and a hint of seasoning for a flavorful twist.

With Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli – A healthy option that balances the richness of the steak.
Sautéed Zucchini – Lightly seasoned zucchini complements the dish without overpowering it.

With Garnishes

Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle on top for a burst of freshness.
Lime Wedges – Squeeze over the steak for added acidity and brightness.

How to Perfect Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

To make your Puerto Rican Pepper Steak truly shine, consider these tips:

Marinate Well – Allowing the steak to marinate for at least an hour helps infuse flavors deeply.
Use Flank Steak – This cut is ideal as it remains tender when cooked properly.
Don’t Rush Cooking – Slowly simmering allows the meat to become tender and absorb flavors.
Balance Seasonings – Taste as you go to ensure the right mix of spices without overpowering the dish.
Add More Vegetables – Feel free to include more bell peppers or even add carrots for extra sweetness.
Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, ensuring all flavors are at their peak.

Best Side Dishes for Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Pairing side dishes with Puerto Rican Pepper Steak enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Mofongo – A traditional plantain dish that adds a comforting, starchy element.
Tostones – Crispy fried green plantains that provide a crunchy texture contrast.
Avocado Salad – Creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes and onions offers freshness.
Fried Plantains (Plátanos Maduros) – Sweet fried ripe plantains that balance savory flavors.
Black Beans and Rice – A hearty, protein-rich side that complements the steak nicely.
Cornbread – Slightly sweet cornbread serves as a delightful contrast to the peppery steak.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch and acidity to each bite.
Pickled Red Onions – These offer a tangy punch that brightens up the rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Puerto Rican Pepper Steak, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Over-marinating the meat: While marinating is essential for flavor, marinating the steak for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 1 hour to overnight for the best results.
Using too much water: Adding excessive water can dilute the flavors. Use just enough to cover the meat, allowing the broth to be rich and flavorful.
Neglecting to sear the steak: Searing enhances flavor through caramelization. Make sure to sauté the steak until natural juices are released before adding other ingredients.
Skipping fresh garnishes: Fresh cilantro and lime wedges add brightness to your dish. Don’t forget these crucial finishing touches—they elevate the meal!
Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on low heat is important for tender meat. Don’t rush this step; allow at least one hour of simmering for optimal tenderness.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Puerto Rican Pepper Steak in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Puerto Rican Pepper Steak

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Puerto Rican Pepper Steak?

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is a flavorful dish made with flank steak, peppers, onions, and seasonings like sofrito and adobo. It’s often served with rice.

How do I make Puerto Rican Pepper Steak more spicy?

To add more spice, consider including sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Puerto Rican Pepper Steak?

Yes! While flank steak is traditional, you can substitute with sirloin or skirt steak. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

What sides pair well with Puerto Rican Pepper Steak?

This dish pairs perfectly with white rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad. The options are versatile and delicious!

How can I customize my Puerto Rican Pepper Steak recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini. You can also experiment with different seasonings based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Rican Pepper Steak is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand—your personalized twist will make it even more special! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the incredible flavors of Caribbean cuisine!