1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the beef into thin strips against the grain. This helps make the beef more tender. Next, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips and mince the garlic.
2. Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, ground ginger, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced beef, bell peppers, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top and stir to coat everything evenly.
4. Cook the Pepper Steak
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
5. Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for the remaining time to thicken the sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve the pepper steak over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cut: Use a tender cut of beef like sirloin or flank steak for the best results.
- Cut Against the Grain: Slice the beef against the grain to ensure it’s tender.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Be mindful of your slow cooker’s settings and adjust the cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking the beef.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Include other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Different Proteins: Substitute the beef with chicken or pork for a different twist.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. This detailed guide ensures that you have all the tips and tricks needed to create a delicious, healthy, and hearty meal every time. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this pepper steak recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and enjoy a comforting and flavorful pepper steak dinner. Bon appétit!