### **Introduction**
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a savory, tender dish made by slow-cooking beef in a flavorful sauce with bell peppers and onions. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation and the slow cooking process that results in melt-in-your-mouth beef. With minimal hands-on time, it’s a perfect dish for busy days or meal prepping. It’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even in a sandwich, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
### **Origin**
Pepper steak, as a dish, is often associated with Chinese-American cuisine, where it typically features thinly sliced beef stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. The slow cooker version of pepper steak is an adaptation that allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender over several hours, making it easier for home cooks who may not want to stir-fry. This version has become a popular comfort food in households, particularly in North America, as it’s simple to prepare and yields great results with minimal effort.
### **Cultural Significance**
Pepper steak reflects the influence of Chinese-American cuisine on the global dining scene. While not authentically Chinese, it incorporates familiar flavors of soy sauce and bell peppers, both of which are staples in Chinese cooking. The slow-cooker variation elevates the dish to an easy, weeknight-friendly option. In a broader context, dishes like pepper steak represent the fusion of American ingredients with Chinese-inspired cooking methods, creating a comforting and accessible meal for all ages.
### **Ingredients & Quantities**
– 2 lbs beef flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced into strips
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium, if preferred)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning, optional)
– Cooked rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for serving
### **Optional Additions**
– Red pepper flakes for some heat
– Fresh ginger for a subtle warm flavor
– Mushrooms for an earthy addition
– Carrots, zucchini, or snap peas for extra vegetables
– A splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of sesame oil for added depth of flavor
– Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for garnish
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Thinly Slice the Beef**: Slicing the beef thinly against the grain helps to ensure it becomes tender and absorbs the sauce better.
2. **Browning the Beef (Optional)**: For added flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan with olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds a layer of depth to the flavor, but it’s not necessary.
3. **Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker**: If you’re doubling the recipe, ensure you have enough space in the slow cooker for the beef and vegetables to cook evenly.
4. **Adjust the Seasoning**: Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or black pepper according to your preference.
5. **Thicken the Sauce**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, create a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with a little water and stir it in about 30 minutes before serving.
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Beef**: Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. If desired, sear the beef in a hot pan with olive oil for a few minutes to enhance flavor.
2. **Layer the Ingredients**: Place the sliced beef, onion, and bell peppers into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic.
3. **Make the Sauce**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper.
4. **Cook**: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
5. **Thicken the Sauce (Optional)**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine the cornstarch with a small amount of water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, then stir to thicken the sauce.
6. **Serve**: Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, serve the pepper steak over steamed rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
### **Description**
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender beef with the sweetness of bell peppers and the savory goodness of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. The slow cooker infuses the ingredients with flavor, making the beef incredibly tender. The result is a dish that’s rich in umami and perfect for serving over rice or noodles. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this easy recipe delivers satisfying comfort food with minimal effort.
### **Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)**
– **Calories**: 280 kcal
– **Fat**: 14g
– **Saturated Fat**: 5g
– **Cholesterol**: 60mg
– **Sodium**: 620mg
– **Carbohydrates**: 14g
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 6g
– **Protein**: 27g
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
### **Conclusion**
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is an easy-to-make and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping. The slow cooking method makes the beef incredibly tender, and the combination of savory and sweet flavors from the sauce is mouthwatering. It’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed with rice, noodles, or potatoes, and it’s an excellent way to bring the comfort of homemade food to your table without much hassle.
### **Recommendation**
For a simple and delicious meal, Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a great option. It’s a family-friendly dish that requires little preparation and can be made in advance, which makes it perfect for busy weeks. Pair it with your favorite side dish for a well-rounded, satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone.
### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is hearty and flavorful, you can make it even healthier by using lean cuts of beef, like sirloin, and serving it with a healthier side such as brown rice or quinoa. For added nutrition, consider incorporating more vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or snap peas, which will not only increase the fiber content but also add more color and texture to the dish. You can also reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium soy sauce and broth, making it a healthier version without sacrificing taste.