Chinese-Style Pepper Steak
Chinese-Style Pepper Steak offers tender slices of beef stir-fried with colorful green peppers, celery, and aromatic garlic in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish pairs well with rice and delivers bold flavors with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Partially freeze the steak, then slice it across the grain into 3 x 1/8-inch strips.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet and brown the sliced meat.
- Add the chopped green peppers, sliced celery, minced garlic, diced onion, beef bouillon, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, and cornstarch; stir well.
- Add the soy mixture to the meat and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the pepper steak over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve tender steak, partially freeze it before slicing, as this makes it easier to cut into thin strips. For a healthier option, substitute the vegetable oil with sesame oil. You can also add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor. Feel free to adjust the soy sauce to your taste, as you can use low-sodium varieties if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. For a vibrant presentation, garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad. For a twist, try serving it alongside Chinese Beef Casserole for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the pepper steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese-Style Pepper Steak contains roughly 286 calories, with 26g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value) and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2132mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin if you prefer. Just ensure the meat is sliced thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness. Each cut will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference and budget.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this pepper steak gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Additionally, ensure the beef bouillon used is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without concern.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Slice the steak and vegetables, and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also make the sauce ahead of time. Just combine everything when you're ready to cook for a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).