Weight Watchers-Friendly Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs lean beef sirloin, thinly sliced
    • Points: About 12-14 points for the entire amount (depending on your WW plan and the specific cut of beef used)
    • Nutritional Benefits: Lean beef is a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B12.
  • 2 large bell peppers (one red, one green), sliced into strips
    • Points: 0
    • Nutritional Benefits: Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to the dish.
  • 1 large onion, sliced
    • Points: 0
    • Nutritional Benefits: Onions add flavor and contain antioxidants that promote heart health.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • Points: 0
    • Nutritional Benefits: Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost the immune system.
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
    • Points: 0
    • Nutritional Benefits: Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
    • Points: 1-2 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Soy sauce adds umami flavor with less sodium than regular soy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
    • Points: 1 point
    • Nutritional Benefits: Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce without adding too many calories or points.
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
    • Points: 0
    • Nutritional Benefits: Beef broth adds depth of flavor with minimal calories.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
    • Points: 4 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Olive oil is a healthy fat that adds richness to the dish, but it can be omitted to reduce points.

Directions:

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Slice the beef into thin strips, and cut the bell peppers and onion into strips.
  2. Brown the Beef (Optional): If you want to add more flavor, you can heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef strips for 2-3 minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker.
  3. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and canned tomatoes (with the juice) into the slow cooker.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Serve: Stir the pepper steak before serving to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Serve over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or enjoy as is.

Serving Size:

  • Makes about 6 servings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 180-220 kcal (without rice or additional sides)
  • Weight Watchers Points: 3-5 points per serving (depending on the specific ingredients used)

Tips:

  • Low-Point Option: Skip the olive oil browning step to reduce points, or use a non-stick spray instead.
  • Add Vegetables: You can bulk up the dish with additional zero-point vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli to increase the volume without adding points.
  • Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve the pepper steak over cauliflower rice or a small portion of brown rice to keep the points low.

Benefits:

  • High in Protein: This dish provides a good amount of protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and keeps you full longer.
  • Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants: The bell peppers and tomatoes add a boost of vitamins A and C, as well as other antioxidants that support overall health.
  • Convenient and Easy: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a great recipe for busy days.

Enjoy this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak as a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy on the points and packed with nutrients!