Peppersteak
Peppersteak is a flavorful Chinese-inspired stir-fry featuring tender beef slices cooked with green peppers, celery, and scallions in a savory sauce. Its bold, umami-rich flavors make it a quick, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests craving Asian cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut beef into paper-thin slices and sprinkle with unseasoned meat tenderizer according to package instructions.
- Heat salad oil in a large skillet over high heat, add the beef slices and cook until the red color disappears.
- Add green peppers, scallions, and celery to the skillet, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, blend water with cornstarch; stir in remaining ingredients except rice.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture quickly into the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Stir constantly until the mixture is slightly thickened and boiling.
- Serve hot with rice or canned Chinese fried noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your peppersteak, consider marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of ginger or replace it with garlic. For added texture, toss in some snap peas or broccoli, making it a delightful addition similar to Vegetable Stir-Fry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your peppersteak hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside crispy canned Chinese fried noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Twice-Cooked Green Beans for a balanced dinner. For a refreshing touch, consider adding a cucumber salad or steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the beef from becoming tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppersteak contains roughly 120 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1850mg per serving (80% 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 different vegetables in peppersteak?
Absolutely! While green peppers and celery are traditional, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. Just ensure that they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a soy sauce alternative, consider using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Additionally, you can create a homemade version using beef broth, vinegar, and a touch of molasses.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, peppersteak is great for meal prep! Cook the dish as directed, then portion it into individual containers. It reheats well, making it a perfect choice for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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).