Here’s your complete, polished recipe profile for Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry, with wide lines removed and formatted for clarity and ease of use:
Introduction
Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that features tender beef cubes tossed in a bold, peppery sauce with crisp vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights that doesn’t sacrifice taste. The intense aroma of black pepper and garlic combined with the rich umami of soy and oyster sauces creates a truly satisfying dining experience.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is rooted in Cantonese cuisine, where black pepper is used to give dishes a bold kick without overwhelming the main ingredients. This dish has gained popularity worldwide thanks to Chinese-American and Chinese takeout restaurants, where it’s often adapted for local tastes. It reflects a balance of heat, savoriness, and crisp freshness that’s a hallmark of Chinese stir-fry traditions.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb flank steak, cut into cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tsp coarse black pepper
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (divided)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for slurry)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp oil for frying
Optional Additions
- Sliced scallions for garnish
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat
- Mushrooms or snow peas for variety
- A dash of sesame oil for extra depth
- Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles
Tips for Success
- Slice flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Marinate the beef to build flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Use high heat when stir-frying for a quick sear and vibrant vegetables.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Stir sauce constantly once added to prevent burning or uneven thickening.
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce with the cornstarch. Toss the cubed beef and let marinate for 15 minutes. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce with oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and coarse black pepper. Set aside. - Stir-Fry the Beef:
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear until browned. Remove from pan and set aside. - Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add garlic, chopped onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. - Combine and Finish:
Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce is thick and glossy. - Serve:
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced scallions if desired.
Description
This stir-fry is a feast of textures and flavors: tender beef with a slight char, crisp-tender vegetables, and a glossy sauce bursting with the bold bite of coarse black pepper. Every forkful offers a mix of savory, slightly sweet, and spicy notes, making this a deeply comforting and craveable meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion size.
Conclusion
Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Its bold sauce and colorful vegetables make it a standout choice for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Quick cooking, simple prep, and balanced flavors mean you’ll want this recipe in regular rotation.
Recommendation
Pair this stir-fry with a side of jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter meal, serve with cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce cups. A simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy makes a great side dish for added freshness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish strikes a great balance between indulgent flavor and mindful ingredients. Lean flank steak provides protein without excess fat, while colorful peppers add fiber and vitamins. For a healthier twist, reduce the amount of oil or use low-sodium soy sauce. Enjoying bold, satisfying meals like this can be both nourishing and joyful when eaten with intention and balance.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version, meal prep tips, or to create a recipe card layout for this one!