Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) Recipe

If you’re craving a fast, flavor-packed dinner that satisfies both your taste buds and your healthy eating goals, look no further than Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry). This low-carb classic combines tender strips of beef with crisp bell pepper, earthy mushrooms, and a savory sauce, all brought together in one sizzling skillet. It checks all the boxes for weeknight ease, bold takeout-style flavor, and keto-friendly nutrition—making it a staple for anyone who loves big, satisfying bites without the carb overload!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) are straightforward, yet each one plays a special role in making this dish truly memorable. You’ll find that every component adds either flavor, texture, or color, working together to create a comforting and vibrant stir fry you’ll crave on repeat.

• Sesame oil (or avocado oil): Adds a nutty, aromatic base for the stir fry—choose whichever is your favorite for high-heat cooking.
• Sirloin steak: Thinly sliced for quick, tender bites that soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Garlic: Brings essential, punchy aroma and depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Seasoning at each stage ensures every bite is full of flavor.
• Green bell pepper: Sliced for gorgeous color and a sweet, crisp texture.
• Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and another layer of crunch.
• Beef broth: Builds the base of a savory, umami-rich sauce.
• Soy sauce (or tamari): Delivers deep, salty goodness and classic stir fry flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Mushrooms: Provide earthy richness and a satisfying chew.
• Xanthan gum: Completely optional, but just a pinch helps thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
• Baby corn (optional): Adds a classic crunch and sweetness while still keeping carbs lower than regular corn.

How to Make Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry)

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil (or avocado oil). Heating your oil first gives you that signature stir fry sizzle and prevents sticking, setting the stage for a great stir fry experience.

Step 2: Cook Steak

Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak and garlic to the hot oil. Let it sear, turning as needed, until the beef is browned on all sides—this should only take a couple of minutes. At this stage, season with salt and pepper for the best flavor foundation, then scoop the steak out of the skillet and set aside. This keeps the beef tender and stops it from overcooking later.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

If your skillet looks a little dry, add another drizzle of oil. Toss in the green bell pepper strips and chopped onion. Stir frequently until the veggies are just tender but still vibrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Cooking the vegetables separately ensures they keep their color and bite—no soggy stir fry here!

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour the beef broth and soy sauce (or tamari) into the skillet with your vegetables. Add in the sliced mushrooms and, if desired, sprinkle in the xanthan gum and baby corn. The combination of liquids and aromatics quickly melds together, picking up all the tasty bits left behind in the pan.

Step 5: Simmer the Mushrooms

Let the mushrooms cook, stirring here and there, until they’re softened and the sauce starts to thicken slightly. The mushrooms soak in loads of flavor at this moment, getting perfectly juicy and tender.

Step 6: Return the Beef and Finish

Stir the browned steak pieces back into the skillet, making sure the beef is evenly coated in sauce. Let everything simmer together until the steak is heated through—this only takes another minute or two. Your Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) is now ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry)

Garnishes

No stir fry is complete without a flurry of fun toppings! Try sprinkling sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or even fresh cilantro on top to add color and a burst of freshness to your Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry). These simple touches make each serving look (and taste) extra special.

Side Dishes

Keep it keto by serving your pepper steak over cauliflower rice or alongside a big bowl of steamed broccoli. If you’re meal prepping, try pairing with roasted zucchini or a crisp cucumber salad for refreshingly balanced bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, spoon the Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on appetizer. Or, serve it over a bed of sautéed spiralized zucchini for a noodle-like twist that keeps things low carb and utterly irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making lunch prep or next-day dinners a total breeze.

Freezing

If you want to freeze extra portions, let the stir fry cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. This meal freezes well for up to 2 months; just be aware that the texture of the vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each, to evenly warm everything through without drying out the beef.

FAQs

Is this dish really keto-friendly with baby corn?

Baby corn is much lower in carbs than regular corn and can fit comfortably into many keto meal plans when eaten in moderation. If you’re strictly monitoring your carbs, simply leave out the baby corn—it’s delicious either way!

Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Definitely! Try thinly sliced chicken breast or even shrimp for an equally tasty and keto-friendly alternative, just adjust the cook time accordingly to keep your protein tender and juicy.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

For super tender steak, slice against the grain into thin strips, ideally when the meat is slightly frozen. This makes slicing easier and ensures quick, even cooking—essential for stir fries like this one.

How do I thicken the sauce if I skip xanthan gum?

If you’d rather not use xanthan gum, let the sauce simmer a little longer to naturally reduce and thicken. It’ll coat the beef and veggies nicely even without added thickeners.

Can I add more vegetables to this keto stir fry?

Absolutely! Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) is wonderfully flexible—try adding sliced zucchini, snow peas, or even thin carrot ribbons if your macros allow. Just be mindful of total carbs if you’re tracking closely.

Final Thoughts

Keto Chinese Pepper Steak (Stir Fry) is the ultimate solution for speedy, satisfying dinners that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. It’s a dish that always feels like a treat, so I hope you’ll give it a try and make it part of your weekly rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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