Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free version)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
• Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • In a bowl, combine thinly sliced beef with soy sauce. Allow it to marinate for 10-15 minutes.
2. Create the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth and cornstarch until well combined to create a slurry.
3. Sear the Meat:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated beef slices until browned on both sides. Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.
4. Saute Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the vegetables are slightly softened.
5. Combine in Slow Cooker:
   • Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the browned beef.
6. Make the Sauce:
   • Pour the beef broth and cornstarch slurry over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. Add hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Cook in Slow Cooker:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well melded.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the pepper steak and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the sauce needs thickening, mix 2 tablespoons of water with a teaspoon of cornstarch, then stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the slow cooker pepper steak over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Recipe Intensity:

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Cooking Technique: Slow Cooking

Tips:

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli for variety.

Enjoy this flavorful and tender Slow Cooker Pepper Steak with your favorite side for a convenient and delicious meal!