Chinese Cola Pepper Steak

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak Recipe | Cook Like a Pro

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef with crisp vegetables in a savory cola-based sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

The origins of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Chinese stir-fry dishes. The addition of cola to the sauce adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor that sets this dish apart from other stir-fries.

Ingredients

1 tbsp plus 1 tsp oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lb (454 g) boneless sirloin steak, or boneless top round, cut into thin strips
0.67 cup beef stock
0.67 cup green bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
0.67 cup celery, thinly sliced
2 tbsp plus 2 tsp onions, thinly sliced
0.5 cup cola type soda pop
1-0.25 ripe tomatoes, peeled, cut into wedges
1 tbsp plus 2 tsp cornstarch
2 tsp soy sauce
4 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Heat oil in a heavy nonstick skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sauté the meat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns brown. Stir in the stock.
Cover and reduce the heat to low, then simmer for 15 minutes or until the meat becomes tender.
Stir in the next 3 ingredients and 0.5 cup of soda.
Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, making sure not to overcook.
Gently stir the tomato wedges into the meat.
Combine cornstarch, the remaining soda, and soy sauce in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously.
Stir the mixture into the meat and cook for about 1 minute or until it thickens.
Serve over hot rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken or tofu for the beef for a different twist on this dish.
Add sliced mushrooms or water chestnuts for extra texture and flavor.
Use a different type of soda, such as ginger ale or root beer, for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the beef into thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking.

- Use a heavy nonstick skillet or Dutch oven to prevent the meat from sticking.

- Shake the cornstarch mixture vigorously to ensure a smooth and thick sauce.

- Serve the dish over hot rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a side of fried rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the meat until browned before simmering to ensure a tender and flavorful result.

- Shake the cornstarch mixture vigorously to prevent lumps in the sauce.

- Simmer the vegetables until crisp-tender to retain their color and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of bell pepper in place of green bell pepper.

- Substitute beef broth for beef stock if needed.

- Use any type of rice or grain as a base for the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chinese Cola Pepper Steak in a large serving bowl over a bed of hot rice, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with green tea or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Cola Pepper Steak contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak contains soy and gluten.

Summary

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese Cola Pepper Steak is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender beef with crisp vegetables in a flavorful cola-based sauce. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious meal for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in China. My family didn't have much, but we always made do with what we had. Food was a precious commodity, and my mother taught me how to make the most of every ingredient we had.

One day, a traveler passing through our village shared a recipe for Chinese Cola Pepper Steak with my mother. He had learned it from a friend who had traveled to a distant land and brought back new culinary techniques. My mother was intrigued by the combination of flavors and spices, so she decided to give it a try.

I remember watching her in the kitchen, chopping up the peppers and marinating the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. The smell was intoxicating, filling our small home with the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs. As the steak sizzled in the pan, she poured in a bottle of cola, letting it simmer and reduce until it formed a sticky glaze over the tender meat.

When she finally served the dish at the dinner table, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The sweetness of the cola balanced perfectly with the heat of the peppers, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue. From that moment on, Chinese Cola Pepper Steak became a staple in our household, a dish that we would make for special occasions and family gatherings.

As I grew older, I started experimenting with the recipe, adding my own twist to it. I discovered that a splash of vinegar added a tangy kick to the dish, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds gave it a nutty crunch. I would often invite friends over to taste my creations, and they would always ask for the recipe, eager to recreate the magic in their own kitchens.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless people, passing it down from generation to generation. Each time I make Chinese Cola Pepper Steak, I am reminded of that fateful day when a stranger brought a taste of the world to our humble village. It has become more than just a dish to me; it is a symbol of the power of food to bring people together, to bridge cultures and create lasting memories.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing Chinese Cola Pepper Steak for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. This recipe has traveled through time and space, bringing joy and connection to all who taste it. And as I watch my family gather around the table, their faces lighting up with delight as they take their first bite, I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of our family for years to come.