why make this recipe
Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tender beef and fresh vegetables. It’s an easy recipe that allows busy home cooks to prepare a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. The slow cooker ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice or mashed potatoes. This dish is not only satisfying but also a great way to include more nutritious ingredients in your family’s diet.
how to make Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 2 large bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), cut into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated or 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)
- Optional garnishes: sliced scallions, sesame seeds, chopped parsley
Directions
- Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Brown beef strips in batches for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Layer sliced onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with beef strips.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, garlic, and ginger. Pour over beef and vegetables.
- Sprinkle black pepper over everything. Add crushed red pepper flakes or steak seasoning if desired.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until beef is tender and peppers are just soft.
- Mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker, cover, and cook for another 15-20 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir gently.
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, or parsley.
how to serve Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is best served hot, over a bed of steaming rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice. You can also add a sprinkle of green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh parsley on top for a colorful presentation. This dish is great for family dinners or when entertaining guests, as it can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs.
how to store Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
To store leftovers, allow the pepper steak to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
tips to make Savory Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the beef in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas to the mix.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cornstarch and water mixture to suit your preference.
variation
You can customize this recipe by using different types of steak or even chicken if you prefer. Adding pineapple or other fruits can also give a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cut of beef that you prefer, such as ribeye or chuck roast. Just remember that tougher cuts may require a longer cooking time.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just toss everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
