Pepper Steak

Authentic Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pepper Steak is a classic Chinese-American dish that features tender strips of beef cooked with colorful bell peppers in a savory sauce. This dish is a favorite for many due to its bold flavors and simple preparation.

History

Pepper Steak has its origins in Chinese cuisine, but it has been adapted over the years to suit American tastes. The combination of beef, peppers, and a flavorful sauce has made this dish a popular choice in Chinese restaurants across the United States.

Ingredients

0.25 cup vegetable oil
2.5 lb (1.13 kg) round steak, trimmed of fat and cut into strips
1.25 cup water
1 medium onion, red, white, or yellow, sliced
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tbsp ground ginger
3 medium green bell peppers, cut into strips
1 chili pepper, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce
3 tsp brown sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 tomatoes, cut into wedges

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a large heavy pot. Add the meat and brown for 5 minutes.
Stir in the water, onion, garlic salt, and ginger. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat. Simmer for 15 minutes.
After 10 minutes, add the peppers. Stir together the soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the pot and stir until the liquid thickens.
Place tomato wedges on top of the meat and bring to a boil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Serve over rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken or tofu for the beef for a different twist.
Add other vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or snow peas for extra color and nutrients.
Experiment with different seasonings such as hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

- Use a hot pan to quickly sear the beef and lock in the juices.

- Don't overcook the vegetables to maintain their crisp texture.

- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pepper Steak over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique used in making Pepper Steak. It involves cooking ingredients quickly over high heat in a wok or skillet to retain their texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

- Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This will save time and make meal preparation easier.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pepper Steak in a colorful bowl or plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pepper Steak with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of white wine or a cold beer complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Pepper Steak is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

Soy

Summary

Pepper Steak is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Pepper Steak is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this flavorful meal in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Pepper Steak. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was known in our small town for her incredible culinary skills, and she had a vast collection of recipes that she had collected over the years.

As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of sizzling steak and peppers filled the air, making my mouth water. Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then handed me a plate of her famous Pepper Steak. I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The tender slices of beef, the perfectly cooked peppers, and the savory sauce... it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I begged Martha for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. Determined to recreate this delicious dish at home, I set out on a mission to learn the recipe for myself.

I started by researching various Pepper Steak recipes in cookbooks and online, but none of them seemed to capture the magic of Martha's version. So, I turned to the next best thing - asking Martha for pointers and tips. Every time I visited her, I would watch her closely as she prepared the dish, taking mental notes of her techniques and ingredients.

One day, after months of trial and error, Martha finally agreed to teach me her secret recipe. I felt like a kid on Christmas morning as she walked me through each step, explaining the importance of marinating the steak, sautéing the peppers just right, and creating the perfect sauce to tie it all together.

I jotted down every detail, from the exact measurements of each ingredient to the precise cooking times. I wanted to make sure I could replicate Martha's Pepper Steak perfectly in my own kitchen.

Armed with my newfound knowledge, I rushed home to give the recipe a try. As I cooked, the memories of Martha's kitchen flooded back to me - the laughter, the stories, and the love that went into every meal she made.

When I took my first bite of the Pepper Steak I had prepared, I couldn't believe how close it tasted to Martha's version. The flavors were rich and bold, the meat tender and juicy, and the peppers perfectly crisp. I had done it - I had mastered Martha's secret recipe.

From that day on, Pepper Steak became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I cooked it, I felt a connection to Martha and the bond we shared over our love of good food.

Over the years, I have shared Martha's recipe with friends and family, passing on her legacy of delicious Pepper Steak. And as I stand in my own kitchen now, preparing the dish for yet another gathering, I can't help but smile at the thought of Martha and the day I learned her secret recipe. It's a memory I will cherish forever, just like the taste of her Pepper Steak on my tongue.