Cindy'S Sweet-N-Sour Steak
Sweet and tangy steak stir-fry with pineapple, colorful peppers, and crunchy celery, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a medium to hot skillet; add steak, cut into thin strips, and brown on all sides, stirring frequently.
- Lower heat; add celery, green peppers, cut into thin strips, and onion. Cook until celery is tender but crunchy.
- Add pineapple, light Karo syrup, vinegar, and 8 ounces water. Heat until bubbling.
- Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water; pour into bubbling mixture and stir until desired thickness.
- Pour over rice or noodles and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the steak in soy sauce and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add cornstarch until you reach your desired consistency. You can substitute round steak with flank steak for a more tender bite. Consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch, which pairs beautifully with Stir-Fry Veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over a bed of steamed rice or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of Chinese Style Vegetable Medley or a simple green salad can complement the flavors well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light soup, such as hot and sour soup, to balance the sweetness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, but be careful not to overcook the steak, as it can become tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindy'S Sweet-N-Sour Steak contains roughly 779 calories, with 14g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% 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 type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute round steak with chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly; chicken should be cooked through, while tofu should be heated until golden and crispy, making it a great choice for Sweet And Sour Tofu And Veggies.
What can I use instead of Karo syrup?
If you're looking for a substitute for light Karo syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Alternatively, brown sugar dissolved in a bit of water can also work, giving a richer flavor that complements the sweet and sour profile of the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the skillet when cooking the vegetables. You could also serve it with a spicy chili sauce on the side, allowing guests to adjust the heat level according to their preference.
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).