Pepper steak might seems fancy but its really easy to make and tastes awesome to almost anyone that tried it, its a mix of tender beef, colorful peppers and a sauce that just makes you want more, started in Chinese cooking where thin slices of beef get stir fried with bright bell peppers, but over time people all over the world have tried different things and now almost every place has its own spin, you can get it over rice in an Asian diner or beside some fries in an American home, its one of those dishes thats easy to change up so it fits lots of tastes.
One of the best ways to prepare pepper steak is by using a crock pot also called a slow cooker, this way you can just toss in your ingredients, set it and forget it till dinner time, it really brings out the flavour cause everything blends together while it cooks slow, even tougher cuts of beef turns tender and soft, thats perfect if your busy but still want a yummy home cooked meal.
In this post we will look at why pepper steak is so loved, how cooking it in a crock pot can make it better, and share a full recipe with all the steps and ingredients you need, whether your a pro in the kitchen or just starting out you will see how simple it is to whip up a tasty pepper steak that everyone will like, so let jump in and talk slow cooked comfort food.
What is Pepper Steak?
Pepper steak is basically strips of beef stir fried with colorful bell peppers and a savory sauce, its super popular in Chinese restaurants and now even home cooks love it, the classic way uses flank steak or sirloin cut thin so it soaks up all the flavors and stays tender.
The usual ingredients are fresh green, red or yellow bell peppers, onions and garlic for that nice aroma, then you mix in a soy based sauce that brings lots of umami taste, but there are loads of versions out there, some people add mushrooms, potatoes or even pineapple if they want something sweet in the mix.
Besides being really tasty, pepper steak shows off a bit of Chinese food tradition where balancing flavors is super important, you might see it served with rice or noodles in different places, but it always keeps that same idea of beef, peppers and savory sauce.
Benefits of Cooking Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Using a crock pot to cook pepper steak has a bunch of perks. First off, its a huge time-saver. You just chop your stuff, put it in, turn it on, and you dont have to babysit it.
Plus the slow cooker really helps the flavors blend better because everything simmers together for hours, the spices and sauce get deep into the beef making it richer than if you cooked it fast on the stove.
It also makes even cheaper or tougher cuts of meat super tender, the low and slow heat breaks down the fibers so every bite kinda melts in your mouth, perfect if you need a no-fuss meal after a long day.
Ingredients for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
To make a great pepper steak in a crock pot, you’ll need these must-haves:
- Beef: 2 lbs of flank steak or sirloin for best results
- Bell Peppers: 2-3 peppers in mixed colors like green, red, yellow
- Onion: One large onion, sliced
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup for that umami kick
- Beef Broth: 1 cup to keep it juicy
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (optional, for browning)
- Black Pepper and Salt: to taste
You can also add these if you like:
- Veggies: mushrooms, carrots or snap peas
- Heat: red pepper flakes or fresh chillies
Detailed Recipe Section
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
Here’s the timing:
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Ingredients List
- Beef: 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin
- Bell Peppers: 2-3 mixed colors
- Onion: one large
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup
- Beef Broth: 1 cup
- Cornstarch: 2 tbsp
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt, Pepper, Optional Spices: to taste
Directions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Slice the beef thin against the grain so its tender later. Chop the peppers into strips, slice the onion and mince the garlic for flavor.
2. Brown the Beef (optional)
For extra flavor, heat oil in a skillet and sear the beef 2-3 minutes a side till browned, but you can skip this if your in a rush.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Put the beef (browned or raw) into the crock pot. Layer the peppers, onion and garlic on top. Pour in the soy sauce and beef broth so everything is covered.
4. Cooking Instructions
Set to low and cook 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Check when you can shred the beef easily with a fork its done.
5. Finishing Touches
Mix cornstarch with a bit of water to make a slurry then stir into the pot. Cook 15-30 more minutes till the sauce is thick enough. Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
Here are some pointers:
- Right Cuts of Beef: flank steak and sirloin work great
- Seasoning Combos: try ginger or sesame oil for a twist
- Storing Leftovers: cool completely then refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months
Pairing Suggestions
What goes well with pepper steak:
- Sides: steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or a simple veg stir-fry
- Drinks: a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp lager
- Garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these slip ups:
- Overcooking: too long and the beef get tough
- Under-seasoning: dont skip the salt and pepper
- Uneven Veggies: cut peppers and onions the same size so they cook evenly
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats for Pepper Steak?
Yes you can use chicken or pork but cooking times will change.
2. How long can I store leftover Pepper Steak?
Fridge for 3 days or freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make Pepper Steak without a crock pot?
Sure, you can cook it on the stove or bake it, just watch the times.
4. Do I need to brown the beef?
It adds flavor but its not a must if your in a hurry.
5. Is Pepper Steak spicy?
The basic recipe isnt too hot but you can add chillies or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Pepper steak is a tasty dish that brings together bold flavors and soft beef thanks to the crock pot. Its great for anyone who wants a filling meal without a lot of work. Give it a shot and enjoy every bite!
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Equipment
- 1 Crock Pot (slow cooker)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Spoon for stirring
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing, optional) This step is optional but will enhance the flavor.
- to serve cooked rice or noodles Serve to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Instructions
- If desired, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the sliced beef for 2-3 minutes until browned. Transfer the beef to the Crock Pot.
- In the Crock Pot, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top of the beef.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the Crock Pot, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Once finished cooking, stir the mixture before serving.
- Serve the pepper steak over cooked rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- For added heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the Crock Pot.
- If you want a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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