Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Keto Chinese Pepper Steak is a savory, satisfying stir fry that brings bold flavors to the table without the carbs. Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a flavorful low-carb sauce that perfectly mimics the taste of traditional Chinese pepper steak. This dish is quick, easy to make, and packed with protein, healthy fats, and plenty of veggies, making it the perfect choice for a keto-friendly dinner or meal prep. It’s a delicious, healthier version of the takeout classic, with all the flavor and none of the guilt!

Ingredients

For the stir fry:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or any other neutral oil)

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

For the sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon erythritol (or other keto-friendly sweetener)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup beef broth (or water)

• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Set aside.

2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, erythritol, red pepper flakes (if using), beef broth, and xanthan gum (if using). Set the sauce aside.

3. Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef in batches (so it cooks evenly), and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Combine the beef and sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables, tossing everything to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes

• Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Options: You can swap the bell peppers for other low-carb vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms.

• Protein Swap: Substitute the flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein option.

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes, or toss in sliced chili peppers for an extra burst of heat.

• Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, increase the amount of xanthan gum or use a little more beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over medium heat.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of erythritol?

Yes, you can use any keto-friendly sweetener such as stevia, monk fruit, or allulose in place of erythritol. Adjust the amount to taste, as some sweeteners are sweeter than others.

2. Can I use a different type of steak?

Flank steak works best for this recipe, but you can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly for the best texture.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with tofu or tempeh. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before stir-frying it.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this recipe will be gluten-free. Regular soy sauce contains wheat, so it’s best to substitute if you need to avoid gluten.

5. Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh vegetables give the best texture, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the stir fry.

6. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

While this recipe is best prepared quickly on the stovetop, you can use a slow cooker for a tender beef version. Simply cook the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker with the sauce on low for 3-4 hours.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.

8. How do I slice flank steak for stir fry?

To slice flank steak against the grain, first identify the direction of the muscle fibers and then slice the meat perpendicular to those fibers. This will make the beef more tender when cooked.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve more people. Just be sure to cook the beef in batches to ensure it browns properly, and adjust the sauce accordingly.

10. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can use any neutral oil like canola, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil. Just avoid using olive oil for stir-frying at high heat, as it has a low smoke point.

Conclusion

Keto Chinese Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a flavorful, low-carb alternative to the classic Chinese takeout dish. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, this stir fry is perfect for anyone following a keto diet or looking for a healthier take on a favorite meal. Quick and easy to make, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re craving Chinese food or just want a delicious, filling dinner, this stir fry is sure to satisfy!

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