Black pepper beef, known as 黑椒牛柳 (Hei Jiao Niu Liu) in Chinese, is a popular stir-fry dish that features strips or cubes of beef stir-fried with bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce. The dish is characterized by its bold peppery flavor, which is balanced by the sweetness of the vegetables and the umami from the sauces used in the recipe.

To create a mouthwatering black pepper beef stir-fry, you will need the following ingredients:

Beef: Use tender cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is essential for that signature warmth and flavor.
Vegetables: Commonly used vegetables include bell peppers (red and green) and onions, which add color and sweetness.
Sauces: A combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and Shaoxing rice wine enhances the dish's umami flavor.
Aromatics: Garlic and ginger are key to building depth in the flavor.
Cornstarch: Used for marinating the beef to lock in moisture and create a glossy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Slice 450g (1 lb) of thin steak against the grain. Season with salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing rice wine, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Stir well and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat a wok over high heat and add a mixture of 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables: In the same wok, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.

Combine Everything: Return the beef to the wok, pour in the prepared sauce, and stir everything together. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.

Serve: Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice, garnished with additional black pepper if desired.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Beef

Use Freshly Ground Pepper: For the best flavor, always use freshly ground black pepper instead of pre-ground.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: To maintain tenderness, avoid overcooking the beef. It should be just cooked through.
Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.

Can I Make Black Pepper Beef Ahead of Time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them right before cooking to maintain freshness.

What Can I Substitute for Beef?

If you prefer, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork, adjusting the cooking time as necessary to ensure it remains tender.

How Spicy is Black Pepper Beef?

The heat from black pepper is milder compared to chili peppers, providing a warming sensation rather than a burning one. Adjust the amount of pepper to suit your taste.

Black pepper beef is a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of black pepper, the tenderness of beef, and the freshness of vegetables. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this stir-fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine right at home!