Poor Man's Pepper Steak Recipe: A Delicious and Affordable Meal

Introduction

When I was growing up, my family often found creative ways to make the most out of simple ingredients. One of my favorite dishes from those times is Poor Man's Pepper Steak. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of family dinners where we enjoyed hearty, flavorful meals without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect example of how you can create a delicious and satisfying dish with just a few affordable ingredients. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your household too.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe: Poor Man's Pepper Steak

Brief Description: A budget-friendly version of the classic pepper steak, made with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal without the high cost of steak.

Ingredients List

For the Pepper Steak:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice for serving
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions:

If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or a meat substitute. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the bell peppers and onion, and mincing the garlic. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. In another small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the water to create a slurry.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Poor Man's Pepper Steak over cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Here are some ways to enjoy Poor Man's Pepper Steak:

• With Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a complete meal.
• With Noodles: Pair with your favorite noodles for a different twist.
• In Wraps: Use the pepper steak as a filling for tortillas or flatbreads.
• With Vegetables: Add a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 5g

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips:

Store any leftover Poor Man's Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

Reheating Instructions:

Reheat the pepper steak in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Poor Man's Pepper Steak?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

If you don’t have soy sauce, you can substitute it with tamari or coconut aminos for a similar flavor. For a soy-free version, use a soy-free soy sauce alternative.

Is Poor Man's Pepper Steak gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

Conclusion

This Poor Man's Pepper Steak is a wonderful example of how you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending a lot of money. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner option. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to leave a comment, share your results, and follow DelishDigs for more budget-friendly and delicious recipes. Enjoy your meal!