Pepper Beef Steak
Western Europe • Vegetarian
How to Make Pepper Vegetarian Steak (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pepper Beef Steak is a globally popular dish cherished for its robust flavors, but for Indian calorie-conscious vegetarians, we've created an innovative Pepper Vegetarian Steak inspired by the classic recipe. This version uses hearty paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu as the protein base, marinated in a vibrant blend of freshly cracked black pepper, Indian spices, and a hint of garlic. The result is a delicious, healthy, and satisfying snack that retains all the warmth and depth of the original while being completely vegetarian and rich in protein. In India, the love for pepper-infused dishes traces back to the lush Malabar coast, where black pepper is called “black gold.” Our Pepper Vegetarian Steak blends this Indian spice legacy with global culinary trends, making it a perfect fusion snack for health-conscious urban foodies. The charred, peppery crust and tender, juicy interior offer a delightful interplay of textures and flavors. Enjoy this guilt-free, protein-packed dish as a snack or a light meal, and experience how traditional Indian ingredients can reinvent international classics for the modern Indian palate.
Ingredients(for 2 steak slices (about 120g each) with salad)
- 250 g Paneer (or firm tofu for vegan) (cut into 1-inch thick slices)
- 2 tsp Black peppercorns (freshly crushed)
- 1 tsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (or cold-pressed mustard oil)
- 2 tbsp Hung curd (or vegan yogurt)
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 1 cup Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, onions) (sliced, optional for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine hung curd, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, olive oil, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt. Add freshly crushed black pepper.
5 minutes
Use freshly cracked pepper for maximum aroma and flavor.
- 2
Gently coat the paneer (or tofu) slices with the marinade, ensuring all sides are covered. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinate longer for deeper flavor infusion.
- 3
Heat a non-stick tawa or grill pan on medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil.
2 minutes
Ensure the pan is hot before adding paneer to get a good sear.
- 4
Place marinated paneer slices on the tawa. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden-brown and slightly charred.
8 minutes
Avoid overcrowding the pan for even searing.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Unlike traditional beef steak, this vegetarian version is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. The use of fresh spices, minimal oil, and protein-rich paneer or tofu makes it suitable for weight management and diabetic diets. It's also adaptable for vegan diets and can be made even lighter with tofu. The grilled preparation preserves nutrients, and adding veggies further boosts the health quotient. This dish fits perfectly into a healthy Indian lifestyle.
This Pepper Vegetarian Steak is high in protein, thanks to paneer or tofu, making it great for muscle repair and satiety. Black pepper boosts metabolism and aids digestion, while the use of hung curd adds calcium and probiotics for gut health. Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, and the inclusion of vegetables adds vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. This dish is low in carbs and free from artificial additives, making it a nutritious, balanced choice for snack lovers.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly cracked black pepper for best aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Marinate paneer overnight for deeper flavors.
- 💡Tip 3: Grill vegetables to add color, fiber, and nutrients.
- 💡Tip 4: Pat paneer dry before marinating to absorb flavors better.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 270.0 kcal |
