For a variation on the sauce, add in a stalk of thinly sliced celery with the rest of the vegetables. It will lighten sauce without changing the flavor. Another variation is to use 1 cup of freshly diced tomatoes in place of the tomato juice. The sauce will be thicker and more stew-like, but still have the same great flavor. Pepper steak can be eaten alone, or serve with rice for a heartier meal.