Bell Pepper Steak

Haitian Bell Pepper Steak Recipe with Beef, Rice, and Vegetables

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bell Pepper Steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp bell peppers, all enveloped in a savory sauce. This recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Bell Pepper Steak is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of Bell Pepper Steak can be traced back to Chinese-American cuisine, where it is a variation of traditional beef stir-fry dishes. It embodies the fusion of American preferences for beef and the Chinese technique of stir-frying. Over the years, it has evolved and been adapted in various ways, incorporating ingredients like tomatoes and onions to enhance its flavor and nutritional value.

Ingredients

1.5 cups beef broth
3 cups hot cooked rice
1 cup sliced green onions
2 green peppers, in strips
1 lb (454 g) lean beef, cut 0.5" thick
2 tbsp cornstarch
0.25 cup each water and soy sauce
2 large fresh tomatoes, cut in eighths
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1 tbsp paprika
2 cloves garlic, crushed

How to prepare

While the rice is cooking, pound the beef to a thickness of 0.25 inches.
Cut the beef into strips that are 0.25 inches wide.
Sprinkle paprika on the meat and let it stand while preparing the other ingredients.
In a large skillet, brown the meat in butter.
Add garlic and broth.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Stir in onions and green peppers.
Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Blend cornstarch, water, and soy sauce together.
Stir the mixture into the meat.
Cook, stirring until the mixture becomes clear and thickened, which should take about 2 minutes.
Add tomatoes and gently stir.
Serve over fluffy beds of rice.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the green peppers with red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with tofu or tempeh.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce and paprika before cooking. This not only adds depth to the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Additionally, cutting the beef across the grain will make it more tender. When stir-frying, make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the beef to achieve a nice sear without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bell Pepper Steak over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, ideal for quickly cooking the beef and vegetables while retaining their texture and nutrients. Browning the beef before adding it to the sauce adds depth to the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If soy sauce is too strong or not suitable due to dietary restrictions, consider using tamari or coconut aminos as alternatives. For those avoiding beef, chicken or pork can be used as substitutes.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes the cooking process quicker and more efficient.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of elegance. Serving it in a large, shallow bowl can also showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables.

Pairing Recommendations

Bell Pepper Steak pairs well with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bell Pepper Steak, including the rice, contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake, as it provides a balanced mix of nutrients without being overly calorific.

Carbohydrates

This Bell Pepper Steak recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the accompanying rice. The vegetables add minimal carbohydrates, making this dish an excellent option for those monitoring their carb intake. One serving of this dish, including the rice, contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Lean beef and margarine are the primary sources of fat in this recipe. Using lean beef cuts and a moderate amount of margarine helps keep the fat content in check. Overall, a serving of Bell Pepper Steak contains about 10 grams of fat, making it a relatively low-fat option for a balanced meal.

Proteins

Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This recipe provides a generous amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams. This makes Bell Pepper Steak a satisfying and muscle-friendly option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Bell peppers and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for immune function and skin health. Green onions add a touch of vitamin K, important for blood clotting. Additionally, beef is a good source of iron and zinc, essential minerals for energy production and immune function. This dish is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a variety of vitamins and minerals in each serving.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (soy sauce) and may contain gluten (depending on the soy sauce used). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should look for suitable substitutes or omit them where possible.

Summary

Bell Pepper Steak is a balanced meal offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in calories and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, making it a versatile and nutritious option for many.

Summary

Bell Pepper Steak is a flavorful, nutritious dish that combines tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce. It's versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with essential nutrients, making it an excellent addition to any meal plan. Whether you're cooking for one or a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a sunny summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the farmers market with a basket full of fresh bell peppers. As I unpacked my produce, I was struck by inspiration. I had always loved bell peppers, and I knew there must be a way to incorporate them into a delicious meal.

I rummaged through my collection of cookbooks, searching for a recipe that would do justice to my beautiful peppers. After flipping through page after page, I finally stumbled upon a recipe for Bell Pepper Steak. The description sounded mouth-watering, and I knew I had to give it a try.

The next day, I set to work in the kitchen, chopping up the peppers and marinating the steak. The fragrant aroma of garlic and soy sauce filled the air, and I knew I was onto something special. As the dish cooked, the flavors melded together in perfect harmony, creating a savory and satisfying meal.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I was amazed at how well the flavors of the peppers and steak complemented each other. The sweetness of the peppers balanced out the richness of the steak, creating a dish that was both hearty and light at the same time.

I made the Bell Pepper Steak for my family that night, and it was an instant hit. My husband declared it one of the best meals he had ever eaten, and my children asked for seconds and thirds. From that day on, Bell Pepper Steak became a staple in our household, a dish that we would enjoy time and time again.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, each time adding my own special touch. Some people prefer to use different types of peppers, while others like to add a splash of wine to the marinade. No matter how it's prepared, the Bell Pepper Steak never fails to impress.

I often think back to that sunny summer day when I first discovered the recipe, and I'm grateful for the inspiration that led me to create such a delicious dish. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I love nothing more than experimenting with new flavors and ingredients.

As I grow older, I find myself drawn more and more to the comfort of my kitchen, where I can lose myself in the simple joy of creating something delicious. The recipes I have collected over the years are like old friends, each one holding a special place in my heart.

And so, as I sit here at my kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting smells of garlic and peppers, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking. It has brought me joy, sustenance, and a sense of connection to those I love. And for that, I am truly grateful.