This saucy and delicious Vegan Pepper Steak comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a great choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. It’s made with tender soy curls (or your preferred vegan meat substitute), crisp bell peppers, and coated in an umami sauce with a hint of sweetness.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• Soy Curls: 8 ounces (about 4 cups) Butler soy curls
• Broth: 3 cups vegan beef broth or vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce
• Vegetables:
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
• Aromatics:
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Rehydrate Soy Curls: Place soy curls in a bowl and cover with hot broth. Let them soak for 10 minutes, then drain and gently squeeze out excess liquid.
2. Cook Soy Curls: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the rehydrated soy curls. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to brown.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
5. Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and soy curls, stirring to combine.
6. Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 71g
• Calories: 170 kcal
• Total Fat: 8g (10%)
  • Saturated Fat: 2g (10%)
• Total Carbs: 10g (4%)
  • Net Carbs: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g (7%)
  • Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 13g (26%)
• Sodium: 400mg (17%)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (3%)
• Calcium: 20mg (2%)
• Iron: 1.4mg (8%)

Health Benefits of Vegan Pepper Steak

Vegan Pepper Steak is not just a delicious dish; it also packs numerous health benefits that make it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. One of the biggest advantages of this dish is that it is plant-based, meaning it is free from cholesterol and lower in saturated fats compared to traditional meat-based dishes. The use of soy curls or other plant-based proteins provides a substantial amount of protein while keeping the dish light and easy to digest. Bell peppers, a key ingredient in this recipe, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. The fiber content in this dish helps with digestion and promotes gut health, reducing the risk of digestive issues such as bloating or constipation. Additionally, the natural sugars and flavors from vegetables make it a more nutritious alternative to traditional pepper steak without sacrificing taste.

Why Choose Vegan Pepper Steak?

This recipe is an excellent option for those who are transitioning into a plant-based diet or those looking for a meat-free alternative to a classic dish. It offers the same bold flavors and satisfying texture as traditional pepper steak but without the use of animal products. The umami-rich sauce, combined with the tender texture of soy curls, creates a mouthwatering experience that even meat-eaters will enjoy. Vegan Pepper Steak is also highly versatile. It can be customized to suit various dietary needs. You can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if you’re avoiding gluten, or opt for a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake. Additionally, you can serve it over different bases like rice, quinoa, or noodles, depending on your preference.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the most convenient aspects of this dish is how well it works for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for several days, making it an excellent choice for those who like to prepare their meals in advance. The flavors often become even more intense after sitting for a day, allowing the ingredients to fully absorb the sauce. To store Vegan Pepper Steak, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days. When reheating, you can warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, adding a small splash of water or broth can help restore its original consistency.

Pairing Suggestions

Vegan Pepper Steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes. The most common pairing is steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully. For a lower-carb option, you can serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. If you prefer something heartier, mashed potatoes or quinoa also work well with this dish. Adding a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas can enhance the nutritional value and make for a well-balanced meal. If you want a bit of crunch, try topping it with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture.

A Budget-Friendly Meal

Another reason why Vegan Pepper Steak is an excellent choice is its affordability. Many plant-based protein sources, such as soy curls, tofu, or tempeh, are relatively inexpensive compared to meat. Bell peppers, onions, and basic sauce ingredients like soy sauce and vinegar are also budget-friendly and easy to find in most grocery stores. By making this dish at home, you can save money while still enjoying a restaurant-quality meal.

Environmental Impact of a Plant-Based Diet

Choosing plant-based meals like Vegan Pepper Steak can have a positive impact on the environment. The production of plant-based proteins requires significantly fewer resources, such as water and land, compared to animal agriculture. Additionally, plant-based diets contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making them a more sustainable choice. By incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine, you are making a conscious effort to lower your carbon footprint while also improving your overall health. Whether you are fully vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is a great step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

Tips for Making the Best Vegan Pepper Steak

• Use High-Quality Soy Curls: If using soy curls, ensure they are properly rehydrated and drained to achieve the best texture. You can lightly sauté them to enhance their chewiness before adding them to the dish.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: The sauce is key to the dish’s flavor, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. If you like a sweeter sauce, add a bit more maple syrup or hoisin sauce. For a spicier version, include some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Peppers: To retain their crisp texture and bright color, cook the bell peppers just until they are tender-crisp. Overcooking them may result in a mushy consistency.
• Experiment with Different Proteins: While soy curls are a great option, you can also try tofu, tempeh, seitan, or even mushrooms for a variation on the dish.
• Let the Flavors Marinate: If you have time, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together. This enhances the overall taste and makes the dish even more delicious.

Conclusion

Vegan Pepper Steak is a flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a healthier alternative to traditional pepper steak, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With its combination of bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a favorite among plant-based eaters and beyond.