Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a potful of savory Pepper Steak simmering away in a crock pot. As the rich aroma wafts through your home, it beckons family and friends to gather around the table. This dish is a delightful blend of tender flank steak, colorful bell peppers, and a medley of spices that come together to create a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak, cut into strips
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, sear the flank steak strips until they are beautifully browned on all sides. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Carefully transfer the browned steak to your crock pot, creating a hearty base for your dish.
- Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic over the steak in the crock pot, allowing their vibrant colors to infuse into the dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes (with their juice), soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt. This savory sauce will elevate the flavors and create a delicious, tangy glaze.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the steak and vegetables, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is tender and infused with flavor.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry, then stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Once done, serve your Pepper Steak over fluffy rice or noodles, allowing the tender meat and flavorful sauce to dance on your palate.
Notes or Tips
For a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the mix. If you’re looking to bulk it up, throw in some snap peas or carrots for added color and nutrition. This dish also freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make extra and save some for later!
Cooking Techniques
Searing the meat first enhances its flavor by creating a beautiful Maillard reaction which adds depth to the final dish. Cooking in a crock pot allows for low and slow heat, making the flank steak tender and juicy as it absorbs all the flavors from the vegetables and sauce. The final addition of cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it rich and velvety.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes! While flank steak works wonderfully, you can substitute with sirloin or chuck roast if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this recipe gluten-free? You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Pepper Steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors and aromas that invite every palate to enjoy. Easy to prepare and simply delicious, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your loved ones, serve this delightful dish, and bask in the warmth of home-cooked comfort food!